BUILDING MUSIC BRIDGES - Developing Intercultural Dialogue and Trust through Music

About this project

<p>The project focuses on developing intercultural dialogue, communicates important social themes such as tolerance to ethnic groups and minorities, anti-Semitism, dialogue, and large-mindedness through arts. It is based on Partners' many years' experience, Norwegian-Slovak cooperation of artists and cultural managers, sharing knowledge and best-practice. They result in several new artistic productions, educational and promotional activities that respond to specific problems in the society and try to improve the critical situation of growing radicalism, hate speech and intolerance in Slovakia. The project will create the Creative hubs / micro-residencies of selected acclaimed Norwegian and Slovak artists and Music bridges / Sounds of Minorities – a series of events including concerts, discussions, lectures/workshops. It will also bring series of educational activities for arts students with bonus topics, such as arts as communication tool, Roma minority songs, the role of women in arts, modern approach to arts education and it will strengthen the bilateral cooperation. Additionally, concerts with lectures on Slovak music and managerial meetings will be organized as an arts management know-how exchange.</p>

Bilateral cooperation results

Collaboration with Norwegian partners Kjell Kalleklev Management (KKM) and International Voice of Justice (IVOJ) was integral to the project's success. KKM provided expertise in music management, production, and audience development, facilitating connections with renowned Norwegian artists such as Nils Økland and Steinar Raknes. This partnership resulted in the creation of unique Slovak-Norwegian music productions and expanded opportunities for artists on both sides. IVOJ contributed to the project's educational and social impact by organizing events that highlighted Jewish music and combated antisemitism, including the Voices of the Holocaust program. Their involvement ensured the project addressed key societal issues through a culturally sensitive lens. The project established a strong foundation for ongoing collaboration, with plans to continue the Building Bridges initiative through European tours and further joint productions. This sustained partnership will promote cultural exchange and reinforce the themes of inclusivity and tolerance championed by the project.

Project partners

• INTERNATIONAL VOICE OF JUSTICE - EUROPE Donor project partner· Norway
• Kjell Kalleklev Management AS Donor project partner· Norway