EIGHTH KONTAKT CONFERENCE, SHOWCASE AND FESTIVAL CONCLUDES – OVER FOUR DAYS, MORE THAN 20,000 VISITORS AT NUMEROUS PANELS AND CONCERTS
The eighth Kontakt Conference, Showcase and Festival concluded on Sunday 24 March. Over four days of a rich and varied programme, which was attended by over 20,000 people, Kontakt confirmed its status as the biggest event of its kind to date. Nearly 200 delegates from seven countries exchanged knowledge, experiences, and visions, making this year remarkably significant for the further development of the music industry in the region. The great success of KONTAKT is also indicated by the fact that at the Conference, over a hundred performances of regional performers at summer festivals and in clubs were arranged, and several publishing contracts for new performers were concluded.
The panel discussions reflected the current trends and challenges the music scene faces. Topics ranged from regional cooperation and international promotion, through revisiting history, generational music collectives, women’s entrepreneurship in the music business, to the impact of technology on music production.
One of the main conclusions, which ran as a leitmotif through the conversations, was the importance of togetherness, innovation, and adapting to changing circumstances. This message echoes the mission of the Kontakt Conference, which aims to connect music professionals and creatives from the Balkans, strengthen the cultural infrastructure of the region, and provide a platform for the development and promotion of independent artists.
The importance of digital technologies and social networks in promoting artists and events, as well as the need to preserve authenticity and the emotional impact of music, also emerged as key discussion points. The need for support from traditional media and institutions was emphasized as well. The exchange of experiences among participants from different countries further enriched the discussions, offering different perspectives and potential directions for the development of the regional music industry.
‘We thank all the participants, delegates, artists, and visitors who contributed to the success of this year's Kontakt Conference. Your passion, knowledge, and enthusiasm are what make Kontakt a unique and unforgettable experience,’ said Kontakt organizer Predrag Ivanović, adding: ‘Kontakt 2024 reminded us of the power of music to connect people, ideas and cultures. Encouraged by this year's success, we look to the future with the desire to continue growing, learning, and breaking barriers together. Because Kontakt is more than sound!’
The performances by artists such as Jarboli, Neno Belan & Fiumens, Letu Štuke, KoiKoi, Bojana Vunturišević, Turbo Trans Tourists, Bohemija, the entire Hali Gali, as well as the DJ set of the global attraction Daddy G, provided the visitors with an unforgettable experience.
Partners of the KONTAKT Conference are the City of Belgrade, the Belgrade Festivals Centre (CEBEF) and the British Council.
