Classical:NEXT has opened registration for its fifth edition, which takes place in Rotterdam next May. The 2015 edition saw 1,000 professionals convene at de Doelen conference hall. Stalls are expected to sell out quickly, with record interest already shown.
‘There is a clear tendency among networks and companies to match or even increase their participation,’ said Classical:NEXT press officer Paul Bräuer. ‘This year’s jury is doing an incredible job going through hundreds of programme proposals, and we are convinced that we can keep the balance and make the event meaningful and worthwhile for every participant.’
Next year’s conference coincides with two other major events in Rotterdam: Operadagen Festival and Music Theatre Now competition. As a result, musical theatre will be a theme for the conference.
It will will also have a tech and digital focus, with digital expert and scholar Katariina Nyberg (pictured) from Finland named as a member of the jury. ‘Since music is about communication, the field of classical music needs to take an active role in rethinking the way it is staged and presented in our time,’ said Nyberg. ‘I am glad to see so many projects and professionals coming to present at Classical:NEXT who have worked out ways in which classical music organisations can effectively reach new audiences and play great music.’
In addition, deDoelen celebrates its 50th birthday in 2016, with a jubilee programme of orchestral and solo performances, campus activities and participation projects planned. ‘Classical:NEXT 2016 will be our international party,’ said de Doelen director Gabriël Oostvogel, ‘[It’s an] occasion to gather our worldwide professionals network to celebrate classical music.’
The international classical music meeting has a special Smart Rate discount price of €290 on offer until 15 January (walkup price is €410). Full details of Classical:NEXT 2016’s programme will be released in January.