Response from Music Meeting to the proposal of the Provincial Executive

The Provincial Executive of Gelderland announced on June 28th their proposal to cease structural support for (among others) Music Meeting starting from 2025. We are shocked and deeply disappointed. Below is our response:

Music Meeting is a unique, high-quality music festival transcending countries, cultures, and music styles worldwide. We take pride in our adventurous and internationally acclaimed program, hosted in the beautiful province of Gelderland, with which we feel a strong connection.

Since its inception, Music Meeting has received support from the province, and for good reason. Since 1985, we have showcased musical discoveries from around the globe to a diverse audience, the majority from Gelderland. New projects, artists performing in the Netherlands for the first time, unfamiliar genres, untold stories – each year, Music Meeting offers Gelderlanders of all ages a musical adventure. Our program is rarely seen elsewhere in the Netherlands, attracting visitors from across the country and beyond. Additionally, our freely accessible online music channel, Music Meeting All Ears, brings concerts, stories, and insights to every Gelderlander.

Music Meeting is a cornerstone for musicians and a platform for international discoveries. In addition to our international discoveries, we consistently find ways to connect with local talent in Gelderland. Last year, we launched an Open Call Gelderland and have plans for further regional collaborations, such as with ArtEZ. Furthermore, we are developing an internationally acclaimed educational program to launch in Gelderland – a first in the Netherlands and an incredible opportunity for young Gelderland musicians.

A festival grows within a context, and Music Meeting's establishment in Nijmegen in 1985 was thanks to creative pioneers with a curious gaze towards the world. Nearly 40 years of success owes much to our strong bonds with both the city and the province: from audiences, musicians, and partners to our Gelderland suppliers, freelancers, interns, and volunteers.

We hope the Provincial States do not adopt the proposal from the Provincial Executive, allowing Music Meeting to continue resonating even louder throughout the province in the coming years.

Sophie Blussé,
Managing Director Music Meeting
+316 4154 8825