Ready for the future - Classical:NEXT 2021

Classical:NEXT 2021 has pressed the start button and announces the first sessions of its Conference Programme. A unique variety of sessions will be featured from 27 to 30 September in Rotterdam, Netherlands, including not only most of the Jury selected Programme from 2020 but also an inspiring new selection. The conference formats offer windows into the latest developments and current issues of a global thriving art music scene.

This year's edition puts the focus on pioneer perspectives, showing how challenging times can speed up thinking outside the box and digital transformations. Across the programme, from Conference sessions to Meet Ups, Classical:NEXT 2021 will be a space to discuss and explore visions for the global art music scene.

Challenges after the pandemic, audience development and disability access are just some of the key subjects to be encountered.

The first Conference sessions are:

AR You Ready?
New perspectives for audience development: when, why and how augmented and virtual reality elements can be a plus. Chaired by Elena Kountidou, head of communications and digital mediation at Konzerthaus Berlin.

To Serve the People
Looking east, thinking outside the box. Following the tracks of Asian pioneers how to identify, captivate and engage potential audiences. Chaired by journalist Ken Smith, Asian performing arts critic for the Financial Times.

Postcard Pitches From Post-COVID Asia
A glimpse into the art music scenes from different regions of Asia. Moderated by Joanna Lee, founder & chairman of Museworks Limited, an international arts consultancy that builds cultural bridges between the US, Europe and Asia.

Change the space, not the content
Explore and discuss how to achieve consistent ways of accessibility, beyond common myths and mainstream. Chaired by Benn Lunn, Trainee Artistic Director of Hebrides Ensemble and Artistic Associate with Drake Music.

Global Orchestra Sector Meet Up
From live to digital. What has changed for orchestras across the globe after over a year of pandemic? Coordinated by Mark Pemberton, director of the Association of British Orchestras.

From Trump to Brexit Part 2
Populist politics, pandemic, EU exit. Momentous years, also for the global classical music market. Join to discuss the future we want! Chaired by Cathy Graham, Director of Music at the British Council.

DIY Sector Meet Up
How can we contribute to a diverse and relevant future? Discuss and get to know people who evolved through the pandemic. Coordinated by Naomi Belshaw, consultant for composers and artists, founder of Naomi Belshaw Consultancy.

These sessions provide first insights on the variety of the Classical:NEXT 2021 programme. All updates and current information can be found on the website.