EU Contemporary Music Exchange 1: Denmark & Germany
Transnational collaborations open up new artistic perspectives, enrich practice and are becoming increasingly indispensable in the face of a European cultural landscape under growing political and financial pressure. Yet it is rarely straightforward: even between neighbouring countries, working methods, structures, and funding systems can differ considerably. And beyond the major festivals and venues, the landscape remains largely unmapped.
Online workshop 1
Countries: Denmark & Germany
Theme: The Independent Scene – Self-Organised Structures and International Exchange
Germany and Denmark are both characterised by a vibrant independent contemporary scene. The “Freie Szene” encompasses a wide range of artist-run and non-institutional initiatives, from independent ensembles, festivals and project spaces to nationwide networks and production alliances that operate outside major institutional frameworks. These self-determined structures foster creative experimentation and egalitarian working methods, but also face systemic challenges such as precarious funding, rising costs, and limited long-term security. The workshop aims to unpack how these self-organised models function, what structural and funding issues they navigate, and how participants can effectively engage in international exchange.
Hosted by: Art Music Denmark, inm/field notes and Podium Gegenwart
Experts/Special Guests: Lena Krause (FREO e.V.), Regin Petersen (Art Music Denmark), Eva Zöllner (Podium Gegenwart)
Moderator: Les Vynogradov
An online workshop series
The workshop series Contemporary Music Exchange in Europe provides an in-depth look at the diverse landscape of contemporary music across the continent, drawing attention not only to the well-known festivals and venues, but to the wider ecosystem of artists, curators, and initiatives that shape each national scene.
Each bimonthly online workshop focuses on two European countries, combining presentations on their distinct musical landscapes with discussion rounds featuring local musicians, curators, and producers. Participants gain practical knowledge of working methods, funding structures, and key platforms, along with the opportunity to make direct contact with potential collaboration partners.
Details
- Where: All workshops are held online via zoom. The access link will be provided upon registration.
- Language: English
- Target Audience: The workshop series is aimed at professionals from the contemporary music scene across Europe including ensembles, musicians, composers, curators, and music managers. It is particularly designed for independent artists and organisations looking to expand their international presence.
- Modular Format: The workshops are independent of one another and can be attended individually based on your interests and needs.
