Őrség Contemporary Music Days
Client:
Divisart initiative
Project:
Őrség Contemporary Music Days
Duration:
January 2019 –
Services:
Project concept, Project coordination, Brand identity, Logo, Print design, Tender writing, Communication, Website, Photography, Videography
Villages
Events
Musicians
Project background
The Őrség Contemporary Music Days was conceived in January 2019 with the goal of bringing contemporary music to a broader audience, particularly in rural areas where such cultural experiences are often limited. This initiative aimed to create a space for young professional musicians to engage with contemporary music while immersing themselves in the serene and picturesque region of Őrség. Known for its hilly landscape, small villages, meadows, and fields, Őrség provided a perfect setting for this cultural exchange.
The challenge
The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020 disrupted the original plans for the Őrség Contemporary Music Days. Organizing an international event became impossible due to travel restrictions and health concerns. The uncertainty continued into 2021, forcing the organizers to rethink and adapt their plans significantly.
Adaptation and evolution
2021
Revised concept
The original concept was adjusted to a smaller-scale festival. This included small concerts, roundtable discussions, and interactive singing sessions.
Execution
Despite the constraints, the festival managed to maintain its essence and introduced a more intimate and community-focused format.
Outcome
The improvised festival was well-received, resonating with the local community and integrating with the region’s traditional charm.
2022
Continuation
The same small-scale format was adopted due to ongoing pandemic restrictions.
Increased popularity
The festival gained more popularity among local visitors and tourists, benefiting from the locals’ modest openness to new cultural events.
Collaborations
Strong connections with local cultural institutions were established, and the festival was advertised alongside local events, enhancing its visibility and integrating with the community’s activities.
2023
Consistency
The festival continued in the same vein as the previous years, maintaining the small-scale, community-focused format.
Renewal plans
Discussions about renewing and expanding the festival began.
Community impact
The introduction of an accompanying choir camp significantly increased local engagement and participation, creating a deeper cultural impact and fostering a stronger sense of community through music.
Conclusion
The Őrség Contemporary Music Days illustrates the importance of resilience and adaptability in the face of unforeseen challenges. Through innovative thinking and community collaboration, the festival managed to sustain its essence and continue its mission despite significant disruptions. Divisart’s comprehensive support was crucial in maintaining the festival’s presence and ensuring that it remained a space for contemporary music and cultural exchange during difficult times.
For three years, the improvised format of the festival was sufficient, but we recognize the need for a bright new idea. We are actively working on this new concept, planning to return to the original idea of a music retreat with significant revisions. By forging new connections and finding useful directions, we aim to establish a brand-new festival in the coming years with a strong educational element. The future holds promise for the Őrség Contemporary Music Days as it continues to evolve and inspire, deeply rooted in the beautiful and peaceful region of Őrség, with its rich traditions and strong community spirit.
