ESNS 2021 announces first details

Organisers of Dutch showcase event ESNS have their optimistic hats on currently, as they announce plans for their January 2021 incarnation.

While they’ll be monitoring the situation for everything irl in Groningen, they’re also set to also host a digital format for both talks and live music.

“The music sector has been hit hard. But we feel strengthened by the hundreds of music professionals from home and abroad who have still bought a registration for ESNS 2021 in recent months, despite the restrictions imposed by the pandemic,” says director Dago Houben. “We feel that as a call from the sector. In addition, we receive tremendous support from a large number of partners, not to mention the authorities who indirectly supported us to let us do what we are good at; stimulate the circulation of European music. This extra support gives us the opportunity to drastically reduce the price of our event to make it as accessible as possible for everyone. We are developing an accessible digital edition for people who are not yet allowed to, or who are otherwise not able to travel.”

Creative director Robert Meijerink adds: “There’s all the more reason to get together again in Groningen in January 2021 and to review and anticipate the future. It is precisely these uncertain times that call for an opportunity to open the dialogue, to support and inspire, to learn from each other and ultimately to regain trust for hopeful times ahead. Last but not least, ESNS wants to organise an event that does justice to its mission; stimulating and promoting the circulation of new European music. The necessity has never been so great.”

In addition, the festival, which usually chooses a country, or set of neighbouring countries to shine a spotlight on, will instead choose the whole of Europe.

It will take place between 13th and 16th January. Conference registrations are on sale now.