Music Festivals in Portugal and Europe

In recent years, there has been an exponential growth in the number of music festivals produced in Portugal. In 2022, 292 music festivals were held, 68 of which were new festivals (APORFEST data). Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the same association estimated that the economic impact of music festivals amounted to 2 billion euros (2019). Facing this reality with strong economic, cultural and social consequences, this optional course unit aims to contribute to the diversification of NOVA FCSH academic offer, bringing to the academic discussion contemporary cultural practices. At the same time, this optional course unit gives students direct contact with the agents involved in these practices. The impact of music festivals has been studied in several countries, however in Portugal this universe still has many aspects to explore. Filling a gap in the academic offer in Portugal, this optional course unit offers FCSH students the opportunity to engage with different approaches to music festivals in Portugal and abroad. The different types of music festivals (dedicated to different musical practices), their history, their role in the economic, cultural and social spheres and the phenomena of festivalization of culture and cultural diplomacy are addressed. In addition to theoretical approaches, this optional course unit gives students the opportunity to directly contact the actors involved in the design, organization and communication of these practices. The optional course unit is based on the practice knowledge of the guests - stakeholders involved in the practice of national and international festivals as well as renowned academics in the area. With this direct and privileged contact, students contact with an innovative approach based on practical experience, involving students in business dynamics and putting them in contact with the economic and social network. The focus on practical knowledge, through the direct contact between the academy and the business environment, gives students practical tools based on theoretical and critical thinking.