The Indian Performing Right Society (IPRS), in collaboration with MusiConnect India, marked its 55th anniversary with the grand three-day event, “Soundscapes of India: Gateway to the World,” held at the India International Centre, New Delhi. This vibrant showcase brought together 16 bands from 10 states across India, creating a unique platform for Indian artists to connect with international festival directors and music promoters, fostering a new gateway to the global music scene.
International Delegates and Festival Listings
“Soundscapes of India” was not just a showcase of Indian talent; it also featured international delegates representing prestigious music festivals, underscoring the event’s aim to foster global collaborations. Here are some key attendees:
1. Brahim El Mazned (Morocco) – Visa for Music, Timitar Festival
- Visa for Music: Held in Rabat, Visa for Music is the first professional market and festival of African and Middle-Eastern music. It aims to showcase the diversity of musical talent from the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region and to create opportunities for artists to connect with the international music industry.
- Timitar Festival: Located in Agadir, Timitar is a celebration of Amazigh (Berber) culture and music, bringing together artists from across the African continent. The festival emphasizes the role of traditional Amazigh music while fostering cultural exchange with other world music genres.
2. Sharzede Binti Salleh (Malaysia) – Rainforest World Music Festival
- Rainforest World Music Festival: Hosted in the lush rainforests of Sarawak, Malaysia, this globally recognized festival brings together musicians from across the world to perform in a setting that emphasizes nature and sustainability. It’s known for its diverse lineup of traditional and world music, workshops, and environmental advocacy.
3. Jung Hun Lee (South Korea) – Seoul Music Week, Gwangju Busking World Cup, Ulsan Jazz
- Seoul Music Week: This event is a showcase and networking platform for the world music industry in Asia, particularly in South Korea. It features performances by a wide range of artists and fosters international collaboration.
- Gwangju Busking World Cup: An international competition and festival celebrating busking culture, attracting street performers from around the globe to compete and share their art in South Korea.
- Ulsan Jazz Festival: A vibrant festival dedicated to jazz, held in Ulsan. It brings together top jazz musicians from Korea and beyond, offering a rich blend of performances in an urban setting.
4. Phuong Le (Thailand) – Wonderfruit Festival
- Wonderfruit Festival: Held in Pattaya, Thailand, Wonderfruit is a pioneering festival that combines music, art, and sustainable living. Known for its innovative approach to festival culture, it focuses on eco-friendly practices and aims to inspire positive change through creative expression and mindful living.
5. Thierry Boyer (France/Reunion) – Théâtres Départementaux de la Réunion, Do Moon Festival
- Théâtres Départementaux de la Réunion: A network of theaters on Réunion Island dedicated to promoting diverse artistic performances, including music from the Indian Ocean region.
- Do Moon Festival: A music festival in Réunion that celebrates the unique musical heritage of the Indian Ocean islands, with performances spanning traditional and contemporary styles.
6. Bozena Szota (Poland) – Ethno Port Festival, Zamek Productions
- Ethno Port Festival: Hosted in Poznań, Poland, this festival is dedicated to world music, offering a platform for artists who explore traditional music forms from various cultures. It emphasizes cross-cultural dialogue and musical fusion.
- Zamek Productions: A production company that supports cultural and artistic projects, often focusing on world music and performing arts. It is known for organizing events that bring diverse musical traditions to the forefront.
7. Natsagdorj Tserendorj (Mongolia) – Playtime Festival
- Playtime Festival: Mongolia’s largest music festival, held in Ulaanbaatar. It features an eclectic mix of genres including rock, indie, electronic, and traditional Mongolian music. The festival is known for its inclusive atmosphere and commitment to showcasing both local and international talent.
8. Marina Pommier (Hungary) – Sziget Festival, Le Monde Dans Mon Village
- Sziget Festival: One of Europe’s largest and most popular music and cultural festivals, held annually in Budapest, Hungary. It features a wide variety of artists from around the world, covering genres from rock to electronic to world music, along with art installations and cultural performances.
- Le Monde Dans Mon Village: A festival that aims to bring the world to local communities, celebrating diverse cultures through music and art. It focuses on inclusivity and global understanding.
9. Jarmila Vickova (Slovakia) – World Music Festival Bratislava
- World Music Festival Bratislava: Held in Slovakia’s capital, this festival is dedicated to world music, bringing together traditional and contemporary sounds from around the globe. It serves as a cultural bridge, fostering understanding and appreciation of diverse musical traditions.
10. John UY (Philippines) – Karpos, Wanderland Festival
- Karpos: Known for organizing vibrant music events in the Philippines, Karpos helps promote indie and mainstream music through concerts and festivals.
- Wanderland Festival: A premier music and arts festival in the Philippines, known for its diverse lineup of local and international artists. It blends music, art installations, and a lively atmosphere to create an immersive experience.
11. Farkfhun Srisuntisuk (Thailand) – Rock Mountain Music Festival, Monster Music Festival
- Rock Mountain Music Festival: A dynamic music festival in Thailand focused on rock music, featuring local and international rock bands. The festival is known for its energetic performances and scenic outdoor venues.
- Monster Music Festival: Another high-energy festival in Thailand that showcases a mix of rock, indie, and alternative music, appealing to a youthful and adventurous audience.
These festivals collectively highlight the richness of global music culture, each contributing uniquely to the international music scene through their focus on regional talent, cultural exchange, and innovative event experiences.
A Celebration of Indian Music’s Global Journey
“Soundscapes of India: Gateway to the World” celebrated India’s rich musical heritage while paving the way for its global future. The event served as a platform for cultural exchange and collaboration, bridging Indian music creators and the international music industry. With vibrant performances, insightful discussions, and global connections, the event underscored the power of music to transcend borders and bring people together.
