Access the Official Press Release here.
We are thrilled to announce the addition of two new members that mark an exciting amplification of the network: the cities of Brussels (BE) and Vilnius (LT) are now part of the Music Cities Network!
BRUSSELS JOINING THE MCN NETWORK
Brussels has long been celebrated as a dynamic music city with a rich cultural heritage and a thriving live music scene. Our colleague and Brussels representative Ward Cannaerts deeply engaged with the MCN throughout the European Music Policy Exchange project and took this last encouragement to push the membership in his city. Brussels Alderwoman of Town Planning says:
“Joining the Music Cities Network represents a significant milestone for the City of Brussels. It reflects our city’s ongoing commitment to fostering creativity, cultural diversity, and international collaboration. By working alongside other leading Music Cities, we aim to further strengthen our vibrant music ecosystem and ensure it thrives for future generations.”
ANAÏS MAES
Alderwoman of Town Planning, Public Spaces and Dutch-language Education and Affairs, City of Brussel
From left to right: Delphine Houba, Elderwoman of Culture, City of Brussel | Ward Cannaerts, Marketing & Communication Manager, Ancienne Belgique | Anaïs Maes, Alderwoman of Town Planning, City of Brussel
VILNIUS JOINING THE MCN NETWORK
Vilnius’ journey into the Music Cities Network actually began with a former participant from the European Music Business Task Force project - Dorotėja Būdaitė. She invited our managing director Lena Ingwersen to present MCN’s vision and work in Vilnius, leading to the city’s official membership. Vilnius, with its rich and varied music culture, looks forward to collaborating with other members to enhance its local music scene and share experiences:
"From classical, rock, or popular music in concert halls, squares, and parks, to niche artists performing in small bars - music is of great importance to the city and its citizens. I am delighted that we are becoming part of a network of Music Cities where we hope to share our experiences, promote music exports, and adopt the best practices to strengthen music business and community development."
SIMONA BIELIŪNĖ, PHD
Deputy Mayor, Vilnius City Municipality
From left to right: Emilija Gaidytė, Project Manager | Gabija Liaugminaitė, Project Manager | Laura Vaišnorė, Director, all Vilnius Night Office
We warmly welcome Brussels and Vilnius, and especially look forward to their valuable contributions to the global dialogue! In times like these, it becomes even more important that cities learn from and with each other how to support and elevate their local music industries.
„What the two new member cities align on is their deep commitment to putting music into the heart of their urban policy making. Both are aware that this dedication is a process and that it will take time. But also that now, by being part of the MCN community, shared challenges will be tackled through the network, shaping future-oriented music city ecosystems together. A very warm welcome to you both - we can’t wait to start working with you!"
LENA INGWERSEN
Managing Director
of the Music Cities Network
Inquiries:
For more information about the Music Cities Network and Brussel’s and Vilnius’ involvement, please contact:
Aneta Gaidamovic
Communication Manager,
Music Cities Network
Email: aneta@musiccitiesnetwork.com
About the Music Cities Network
The Music Cities Network is a transnational non-profit association embracing the collaboration between and within music cities around the globe. By promoting exchange, research, and advocacy, the network aims to build thriving music ecosystems that support cultural, social, and economic development worldwide.
We are a growing independent city network and are open to welcoming music cities from around the globe who want to become part of the change.