The Atomic Orchestra

The Atomic Orchestra is an innovative Belgian hybrid orchestra of 47 top-tier musicians, led by trumpet player and conductor Jo Hermans, with arrangements by saxophone player Wietse Meys and creative direction by filmmaker Gilles Coulier. Blending classical instrumentation with alternative pop and rock, the ensemble creates a groundbreaking, multidisciplinary live experience that pushes boundaries and connects musical worlds. With a unique equal-pay structure and a line-up that unites strings and woodwinds with rhythm section, synths, brass and sax players from the pop and jazz scene, The Atomic Orchestra champions collaboration, authenticity, inclusivity and artistic innovation. The Atomic Orchestra has already worked with a wide range of Belgian artists, including Brihang, Brutus, Baloji, Ise, Amenra, Gabriel Rios, J. Bernardt, Goldband, Eefje De Visser, Selah Sue, Warhaus and Yong Yello. Following standout performances at Pukkelpop 2024 and 2025, the orchestra received major critical acclaim: five-star reviews from Humo and De Morgen, the Studio Brussel Festival Award 2024, and a live collaboration with Brutus that entered the Afrekening chart. Driven by this momentum, The Atomic Orchestra aims to build a sustainable musical ecosystem in which Belgian music can grow, innovate and shine internationally.