EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES
The Music Cities Network is a global, independent non-profit association committed to strengthening music ecosystems through international collaboration and local empowerment.
We connect music cities and their stakeholders - policymakers, city strategists, artists, and industry professionals across borders - to exchange knowledge, co-create solutions, and foster resilient, inclusive, and future-ready music environments.
Rooted in a holistic and action-oriented approach, MCN supports cities in harnessing the power of music to drive cultural, social, and economic development.
Our network is growing and open. We welcome all music cities ready to engage, collaborate, and lead meaningful change in their communities and beyond.
REDEFINING MUSIC CITY POLICIES
We are at a time when the challenges facing the global music industry have become more pressing than ever, which means the industry must become more diverse, fairer and healthier. Contributing to this mission, the network encourages borderless cultural exchange and business opportunities between the music cities.
MCN’s measures ultimately seek to encourage decision-makers and politicians to recognize music as an integral part of city development in the long term.
WHAT WE DO
From exchange to action
MCN's work goes beyond networking - it spans concrete projects, policy exchange, research and knowledge building across member cities.
International Summits
Bringing members together for intensive exchange, city visits and collaborative work.
Knowledge Exchange
Sharing practical knowledge between cities, policymakers and music ecosystems.
Working Groups
Developing shared approaches around common challenges facing music cities.
Research & Insights
Turning collective experience into useful knowledge and evidence.
Policy & Advocacy
Connecting music ecosystem needs with wider urban and cultural policy.
City-to-City Collaboration
Creating partnerships and practical exchange between member cities.
KNOWLEDGE HUB
Knowledge built by cities, for cities.
Explore reports, case studies, tools, research and practical resources developed across the Music Cities Network.
Member cities voices
"For me, being part of the MCN means tackling the complex issues and challenges of a music city together. The knowledge in the network is extremely high and as a member we benefit greatly from the multi-layered perspectives and creative approaches of the partner cities. These are not only exchanged in the MCN, but also jointly developed in concrete, transnational projects.“
Maureen Noe
Music Board Berlin
Referent for artist funding
and international projects
