UNESCO designates Ghent as Creative City of Music
UNESCO – the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization – set up the Global Alliance for Cultural Diversity in 2002. The Creative Cities Network shares the philosophy of that initiative, which encourages cities to work together to develop creative industries. The network is divided into seven categories: literature, film, music, folk art, design, media culture and gastronomy.
UNESCO chose Ghent on the basis of four specific aspects in the city's dossier.
One of Ghent’s strengths is its music education: the Conservatory, various advanced and postgraduate studies (Orpheus Institute, Flanders Opera Studio, IPEM) and a range of informal courses.
Ghent’s second trump card is its festivals, including the ‘Festival van Vlaanderen’ (Flanders Festival) and of course the ‘Gentse Feesten’.
Third, UNESCO noted Ghent’s record of preserving and restoring much of its heritage, which it then puts to very contemporary, innovative uses. One example is the Vooruit. This arts centre, based in an old building restored to its original condition, is known for its innovative programmes and the application of new technologies.
Finally, UNESCO was also impressed with the way in which Ghent integrates music into the fabric of the city and encourages public participation.
More information: www.gent.be/gent.htm?id=START&ch=THE&rec=152283 (Available in Dutch)
Picture
© Luc Monsaert
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