Structured Dialogue Music Moves Europe

1st Structured Dialogue

20-21 May 2019, Brussels

100 representatives from the European music sector gathered at Ancienne Belgique in Brussels for the 1st Structured Dialogue of Music Moves Europe to discuss policy, funding and legislation for the European music sector. The meeting was opened by Tamás Szucs, new director of the Directorate-General for Education and Culture (DG EAC) in the European Commission and Susanne Hollmann, responsible for Music Moves Europe in DG EAC. The aim of this Structured Dialogue is to explore possible elements for new EU support for the music sector and exchange on the developments of the sector.

In two World Café sessions, the participants discussed the future of music media and live music. Issues that were brought up regarding the future of music media ranged from algorithms (streaming, data), curated playlists, transparency and new skills. During the live music session participants talked about audience practices, new generations and live music formats, the lack of (qualitative) data and the role of local authorities. In both sessions, participants stressed the importance of music education and professionalisation as well as the need for more implementation of environmentally sustainable practices.

The first panel discussion “Access to capital: how to fund creativity and innovation” focussed on the Guarantee Facility for the Cultural and Creative Sector which is part of Creative Europe. It allows micro, small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) easier access to bank loans e.g. for investment in equipment. The second panel discussion focused on the recently adopted Copyright Directive with representatives from the European Commission, YouTube, the ECSA, GESAC and IMPALA. The EU Member States will now have to adopt the directive into national law. The meeting was concluded by EU Commissioner for Culture and Education Tibor Navracsics.

The EMC contributed with priorities and measures from the European Agenda for Music and further contributions by members which included obstacles to mobility and mobility funding, access to music education, gender balance and freedom of expression. Furthermore, the EMC stressed that Music Moves Europe should not only look at market driven aspects of the music sector but take a more holistic approach.

Summary report by the European Commission about the 1st Music Moves Europe Structured Dialogue