As 2024 comes to a close, the Music Cities Network reflects on a year filled with growth, connections and development, but also laughter and tears. Here's a look back at what was new this year and what lies ahead - accompanied with cute pictures to make it even nicer..
Access the Official Press Release here.
Two Inspiring Summits: Bergen and Göteborg
In 2024, MCN hosted two successful summits – the Summer Summit in Bergen and the Winter Summit in Göteborg. These gatherings brought our members together to - on the one hand - deepen connections, share insights, and work intensively on the strategic development of our network - and on the other hand - deep dive into each music scene, be inspired and overwhelmed in the most positive ways. The outcomes of these summits have set the stage for an exciting future, with clear goals and a commitment to co-ownership and nurturing what we have built.
Welcoming New Members
The MCN family expanded in 2024 with the addition of four new member cities: Aalborg, Brussels, Düsseldorf, and Vilnius. Each brings unique expertise and people who are as excited about the MCN as we are to our network. With more cities in the pipeline, we’re thrilled to see the network grow even stronger and more diverse in the future.
Presentation of EMPE Guide in front of the European Commission
In February, the EU hosted the Conferences on Music to enhance dialogue between EU policymakers and the music ecosystem. Lena Ingwersen and Shain Shapiro PhD were honored to present the EMPE Guide to an inspiring group of major change-makers and representatives from 19 Member States. We're deeply grateful for this opportunity and reminded that nothing is certain—we must continue pushing our agendas forward together!
Celebrating the Completion of EMBTF Vol. II
April marked the conclusion of the EMBTF Vol. II project, a testament to what can be achieved through European collaborative efforts. This milestone was accompanied by the release of a comprehensive manifest to guide others in the music and cultural sectors. Explore the manifesto here: https://embtf.org. And we’re not done, the Task Force is here to stay - stay tuned!
MCN x Reeperbahn Festival Showcase
... And we also love to think back to the success of the MCN Showcase at this year's Reeperbahnfestival. We are so happy to have been sent the best and most talented artists from our member city representatives. They captivated us all—whether moving the crowd to tears - or to sing - or to sway along. The energy was shared by everyone involved.
It really is a privilege to collaborate with such a wonderful network and to present this rich palette of musical and urban diversity. We are so grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences and look forward to many more to come.
Representing MCN and advocating for the Value of Music in Cities on Global Stages
This year, MCN amplified its presence across the global music scene by participating in leading showcase festivals, including: Eurosonic Noorderslag (ESNS) in Groningen, SPOT Festival in Aarhus, Iceland Airwaves, WOMEX in Manchester, or the Pop-Kultur Festival in Berlin just to name a few. Together we discussed topics such as festivals, safer spaces and music city potentials and showcased the strength of our collaborative network to the world.
Introducing Our New Knowledge Hub
Okay, brand new (!) and a major update to the MCN website in 2024 is the launch of our Knowledge Hub! On our website, we have a new part that is dedicated to the latest research outcomes in regard to music and urban development from our member cities. This resource is a cornerstone of our mission to foster co-ownership and to empower our members and partners with the tools, insights, and best practices necessary to thrive. All in the name of finding unity in plurality!
Quote from MCN’s Managing Director Lena Ingwersen
"As we look ahead to 2025, I’m filled with gratitude and excitement for what’s to come for MCN. With new partnerships on the horizon and a steadfast focus on nurturing our growing network of music policy changemakers, I firmly believe we have a strong ace up our sleeve to seize the opportunities and face the challenges ahead.
To all our members, partners, and collaborators—thank you for making 2024 so special. And to my wonderful team Aneta and Sabrina - All this would not be possible without you! Together, we’ve achieved so much, and I can’t wait to see what we build in the year ahead. Here’s to another amazing year of connecting through music!"
Saying Goodbye to Sam Malik
And to our dear friend, colleague, and EMBTF participant Sam Malik:
Your sudden passing at the beginning of this year has shaken us to the core. You have and will accompany our work and drive to also continue your legacy! You are still missed dearly! And you will never be forgotten. </3
Inquiries
For more information about the Music Cities Network and Düsseldorf and Aalborg's involvement, please contact:
Lena Ingwersen
Managing Director, Music Cities Network
Email: lena@musiccitiesnetwork.com
About the
Music Cities Network
The Music Cities Network is an international organization dedicated to connecting cities through the power of music. By promoting collaboration, research, and advocacy, the network aims to build thriving music ecosystems that support cultural, social, and economic development worldwide.