Arts Flanders

As a result of the meeting of the working group folk & traditional music of the European Broadcast Union during the renown folk music festival in Rudolstadt, Flanders Music Centre is releasing a compilation of contemporary folk from Flanders.

Traditional or folk music remains an inexhaustible source of inspiration, whether in classical music, pop, in new folk or even in jazz - it's everywhere. The reinvigorating interaction between old styles and new ideas is a lively affair that seems to go on forever.

Today the local scene in Flanders is an impressive alternative economy in its own right, a powerful community with its own websites, festivals, dance parties, venues, studios, record labels etc. Even though things seem to be happening out of the spotlight, folk and folk dancing are certainly alive and kickin'.

Today, we benefit from the experiences accumulated by several generations. If we currently have more information, better instruments, an improved educational plan with more inspiring teachers than ever before, then that's the result of the labour of love by pioneering musicians and music lovers. Now we see a tremendous potential: youngsters are eager to try and find their own ways of dealing with their musical heritage, whether it's from Belgium or flavoured by the other side of the world, on modern or traditional instruments. And that's the way we like it!

To make this choice selection we asked 20 promoters to send us a list of their favourite bands and music. The result is a real compilation, and we hope it will inspire radio makers to program this music and promoters to invite bands to their festivals.

This CD is not for sale but for promotional use only. If you are a music professional you can get a copy by visiting our stand at Womex or contact us by mail.