Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Mariya Gabriel: With innovation and young people, the Balkans could become a hub for the music industry
19 October 2023 News
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Maria Gabriel is the patron of the large-scale international music conference "SoAlive", which will take place on 19, 20 and 21 October in Sofia. The Minister of Culture Krustyu Krastev also took part in the opening ceremony this evening.
The event, organized by Ruth Koleva and Mila Georgieva, brings together representatives of major music companies such as Warner Music, Ninja Tune, Global Records, experts from YouTube and Spotify platforms, as well as organizers of popular European and international festivals - Mad Cool, Live Nation Madrid, etc. The conference provides an opportunity for artists from Bulgaria and the entire Balkan Peninsula to exchange experience, information and knowledge with more than 60 key industry figures.
"Cultural diplomacy and the arts strengthen ties between nations and mutual understanding. The SoAlive Music Conference is another opportunity to discuss strategies, initiatives and ideas in the field of cultural diplomacy. It demonstrates the power of music and the arts and their integral role in creating a narrative that showcases the cultural richness of regions around the world," said Maria Gabriel.
The aim of "SoAlive" is not only to present Bulgarian culture and musical creativity, but also to position the country as an important centre in the European music industry. In his speech, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs focused on the potential of the region, the link between cultural diplomacy and digitalisation, and support for young talents.
"The conference is different in that it focuses on the cultural and historical heritage of the Balkans. The aim is to promote this heritage and, at the same time, help artists from the Balkans and South East Europe access the wider European music market. It is important here to seize the opportunities of the digital age as new technologies remain the foundation for the development of the music industry," the Deputy Prime Minister further commented
Maria Gabriel also stressed the need to attract young talent in the sector. According to her, the link between culture and innovation is the key to making the sector more attractive, dynamic and providing more career prospects for young people. "With innovation and young people, the Balkans can become a hub for the development of the music industry."
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