[Invitation only]
The future of music ecosystem mapping projects, currently numerous and diverse in purpose and method, could benefit from coordinated and structured actions capable of enhancing their comparability, efficiency, identification of opportunities and challenges, breadth of interests, and perspectives to bring to the attention of public institutions at both local and national levels. This roundtable aims to discuss whether, beyond individual mapping initiatives, it is possible to identify a common system for exchanging the information collected, allowing for sharing beyond the specific interests and methodologies of each actor promoting mapping processes.
The discussion may cover aspects related to defining the musical ecosystem, its scope on urban, local, or regional bases, the inclusion of historical or generally qualitative data, and the circulation and sharing of data while respecting the prerogatives and interests of the parties involved. Such a shift toward a collaborative approach, in addition to fostering a more holistic understanding of the value chains and characteristics of the “music system” in various locations, aligns with the broader perspective of viewing culture as an engine of economic and social development.
From the standpoint of stakeholders and institutional decision-makers, a higher-quality, more far-reaching mapping process provides a framework to examine broader dynamics through the lens of the music sector. These dynamics can be intercepted, interpreted, and, when necessary, shaped to respond promptly to the needs of the diverse communities they represent.