Ideas sought for more diversity in the classical music audience
The Bernese Oberland classical music festival network, which includes 14 renowned festivals, is launching a project competition. The aim: a more diverse audience at classical concerts. The winning project is endowed with CHF 2000. Project ideas can be submitted until mid-September.
Music is not elitist, it is not rich, it is not academic, it is not old, it is not young. The Bernese Oberland Classical Music Festival Network (KFBO) is convinced that music is free and for everyone. But how do you reach "everyone"? To find out, KFBO is looking for ideas for new and innovative projects in the field of music education. Projects that should ensure a greater diversity of audiences at the classical music festivals in the Bernese Oberland.
This is because the audiences of many classical concerts - not only in the Bernese Oberland - often belong to a certain social class: the not-so-young, classically educated middle classes. Other social groups such as people with different language or educational backgrounds, young people, specific professional groups or people with disabilities are often underrepresented at classical concerts or do not feel welcome. There would also be more room in the audience for international tourists in the Oberland.
We are therefore looking for projects that break down inhibitions. People who have never attended a classical music festival should be encouraged and motivated to give classical music a chance. The key question here is: what can be done to invite previously excluded groups to participate in culture and, if necessary, connect them with a regular audience?
Until am September 15, 2024 project ideas can be submitted. The project description should be one to a maximum of two A4 pages including the budget. The winning project is awarded prize money of 2000 francs and can ideally be realized at all 14 festivals. Delivery address: Office of the KFBO, Christine Lüthi, info@klassikfestivals-berneroberland.ch
