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Music Cities Network at ESNS Noorderslag 2025

Where can you find us during ESNS? Between great concerts, inspiring panels, and maybe in line for Eierballen. But make sure to join us at these key events:


17th January, Friday 14:30 | Academie Minerva

Symposium on Creative Hubs in Groningen


The creative hubs in Groningen really make up the whole (cultural) heart of the city - But Groningen’s growth and expansion are pressuring these. So this symposium is an invitation to anyone to get inspired and learn from other cities cultural landscapes. No gatekeeping here!


Hosted at Academie Minerva on January 17, this free event brings together creatives, cultural entrepreneurs, and policymakers to shape the future of Groningen's cultural ecosystem. The line-up of speakers for this event oozes with creative minds, so you better do not miss out on this one. This symposium is organized in collaboration with ESNS, Municipality of Groningen, Municipality of Nijmegen, and us, the Music Cities Network. No wristband for ESNS needed.


Program:

  • 14:30 - Opening & Policy Introduction

    Alderman Rik van Niejenhuis highlights the importance of creative hubs and introduces the new municipal policy.

  • 14:40 - Keynote: The Right Framework for Creative Hubs

    Jonas Larsen (Institut for X, Aarhus) presents an inspiring case study on the creative hub in Aarhus, Denmark.

  • 15:10 - Keynote: The Basis, a Creative Hub in Nijmegen

    Maike Fleuren discusses the creation and success of the Nijmegen hub.

  • 15:40 - Break (10 minutes)

  • 15:50 - Presentation: Groningen Creative Hubs Coalition Manifesto

    The Groningen Creative Hubs Coalition shares their vision.

  • 16:10 - Panel Discussion: The Right Frameworks for Music Hubs in Groningen

    Featuring Djamila Boulil (researcher and lecturer, University of Groningen), Jonas Larsen (Institut for X), and Anni Nguyen (Community and Cultural Manager).

  • 16:40 - Closing & Networking

    The symposium will be hosted by Bart de Zwart, professor of real estate at Hanze University of Applied Sciences.


Let’s shape and celebrate the future of our city together. We look forward to welcoming you!


 

17th January, Friday 17:00 | Café Hoppe

Hamburg Music Reception


And if you’re looking for a taste of Hamburg during ESNS too: Join Hamburg Music for an evening of drinks, snacks, and conversations. Happening on January 17, from 5:00–7:00 PM at Café Hoppe


Join us at ESNS Festival to connect with MCN members and explore new opportunities for collaboration!




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