Knowledge-sharing afternoon on Inclusivity and Accessibility in the live music industry in the Northern Netherlands

Inclusivity and accessibility are key issues within the cultural sector. Many organisations say they consider these matters important, but putting them into practice often remains complicated. Why is that, and what is needed to create a more inclusive and accessible music scene in the Northern Netherlands? During this Knowledge Afternoon, we will explore these challenges by bringing together different perspectives from research, education and the music industry.

The programme focuses on the exchange between these worlds: what can academics, students and music professionals learn from each other, and how can research and education contribute to meaningful change in practice?

We welcome academics, students and practitioners active in the live music industry in the North of the Netherlands. Attendance is free. Please note: the programme will be in English.

REGISTRATION IS CLOSED.
If you would like to attend a specific session feel free to send an email to m.viet@rug.nl

Where and when?

• The Knowledge Afternoon will take place on Friday, 2 October 2026, from 14:00 to 17:00, followed by drinks until 18:00

• Location: Harmony Building (Oude Kijk in 't Jatstraat 26, Groningen)

What is it about?

There is a lot of attention within the sector for inclusivity and accessibility, but there is still work to be done. The issues are incredibly broad: it’s not just about what’s on stage, but also about who works for organisations and what kind of audience is being reached. And inclusivity goes beyond gender and cultural background: is offering a variety of music genres also part of inclusivity? And how accessible is the music scene if you live in a village in Drenthe?

Given that context is particularly important when it comes to inclusivity and accessibility, and that there is never a one-size-fits-all solution, it is important to discuss how these issues play out specifically in the Northern Netherlands: what are the biggest obstacles people face in this region? To better address these challenges, it is important for organisations to exchange knowledge and discuss the obstacles they face and how they are trying to overcome them.

The aim of this Knowledge Afternoon is to bring together organisations, professionals, researchers and students from across the Northern Netherlands to exchange knowledge and perspectives on inclusivity and accessibility in the live music sector. By connecting practice, research and education, we hope to deepen the current debate, learn from one another and explore how knowledge and experience can inform change in practice. We also aim to strengthen connections between organisations and the university, creating opportunities for future collaboration, research and knowledge exchange.