Ensor 2026 Award for Best Music goes to This Is Not a Murder Mystery

Justine Bourgeus (Tsar B) & Hannes De Maeyer win the Ensor 2026 Award for Best Music

This Is Not a Murder Mystery has won the Ensor 2026 for Best Original Score, awarded to composers  Justine Bourgeus (Tsar B) and Hannes De Maeyer for their bold and imaginative soundtrack to the acclaimed series directed by Hans Herbots.

Blending echoes of 1930s surrealism with contemporary electronic textures, orchestral grandeur and experimental sound design, the score plays a defining role in shaping the tone of the six-part series. Performed by the Budapest Art Orchestra, the music moves seamlessly between tension, lyricism and absurdist undertones — mirroring the series’ unique mix of mystery, humor and style.

Originally invited to pitch separately, De Maeyer and Bourgeus chose to join forces, creating a layered and distinctive musical world that elevates the narrative beyond traditional genre boundaries. Their collaboration has been widely praised for its originality and emotional depth.

The award further cements Hannes De Maeyer’s reputation as one of Belgium’s leading film composers and highlights Justine Bourgeus’ growing impact in international film and television scoring, alongside her work as Tsar B.

The original soundtrack is available digitally on all platforms via VRT MZK (Benelux) / Milan Records (Worldwide), with a limited vinyl edition available via Music Mania (Belgium) or Milan Records.