Can formal education—universities and institutional training programs—really equip artists and professionals with the skills and mindset needed to thrive in today’s fast-evolving music industry? Or are alternative learning initiatives—EU-funded projects, private vocational programs, and independent education platforms—better suited to meet the industry’s real needs, thanks to their flexibility, innovation, and close ties to current industry practice?
This unique performative discussion brings together educators and learning designers from both sides of the educational spectrum to battle it out on stage. Representing formal academic pathways and alternative, non-formal models, they’ll go head-to-head, answering sharp, provocative questions that test the relevance and impact of their approaches.
From navigating new technologies and AI, to designing inclusive, future-proof learning experiences, to adapting to economic shifts and the expectations of a new generation—our speakers will be challenged to demonstrate whether their educational models are truly fit for the future of music careers.
But this isn’t just a debate—it’s a battle. Expect quick comebacks, bold claims, real-life examples, and passionate argumentation. The audience doesn’t just watch—they judge the quality of each round’s responses and decide who takes the lead.
This dynamic format promises not only an engaging and entertaining session, but also a thought-provoking look at the global landscape of music industry education—highlighting what’s working, what’s missing, and where we go from here.
