GO INTERNATIONAL!

– Meet the international music industry during Viva Sounds 2026

The course is produced by Westside Music Sweden in collaboration with Kulturakademin, with support from the Region of Västra Götaland.

Description

During Viva Sounds, Westside Music opens the door to the international music industry for participants from Kulturakademin.
In an exclusive and interactive workshop, musicians, organizers, and other professionals in the music field will have the opportunity to meet bookers, festival organizers, agents, PR and label representatives – all with solid experience from the independent scene and a genuine interest in sharing knowledge, perspectives, and practical advice.

The workshop is designed to provide participants with:

• Insight into how international work operates at the indie level
• Direct contact with relevant industry professionals
• Tools to build sustainable relationships and strategies for international establishment

This is not a lecture – it is an opportunity to engage in conversation, ask questions, and receive personal answers from people who work daily with international music projects.

Structure and Pedagogy

The workshop is divided into three parts to maximize learning and interaction:

Preparation (Pre-workshop)

• Participants receive information in advance about the guests and their respective roles.
• Each participant prepares their own questions, needs, and goals for the workshop.

Joint Introduction (30–45 min)

• The guests introduce themselves and their work.
• Discussion on international work, challenges, and opportunities at the indie level.
• Focus on transparency and real-world perspectives.

Round Tables (approx. 60–90 min)

• Rotating conversations in small groups where each participant meets every international guest.
• Opportunity to ask prepared questions, receive direct feedback, and establish connections.
• Conversations are briefly documented to support follow-up.
  
  

Learning Objectives

After completing the workshop, participants should:

• Have an increased understanding of how international collaborations in the music industry work.
• Be familiar with different pathways to reach beyond Sweden as a musician or organizer.
• Have established at least one relevant contact to build upon.
• Be able to identify the next step in their international development.

Who Can Apply?

Musicians, organizers, producers, and other professionals in the music field who are active in Västra Götaland or Halland and have ambitions to work internationally.
The workshop is suitable for both freelancers and individuals working within organizations.

Important to know:

• The course is free of charge for those registered as residents in Västra Götaland.
• A late cancellation will incur a fee of 500 SEK.
• For participants registered in another region or country, a course fee of 1900 SEK applies.
• The date and venue will be announced in due course. Further details regarding the participating artists and industry representatives will also be shared at a later stage.

Questions about the course?

You are warmly welcome to contact Erik Bergstrand at, erik@kulturakademin.com.