AUCKLAND JOINS GLOBAL MUSIC NETWORK
Auckland is officially a City of Music, having joined the UNESCO Creative Cities Network last year
THE CULTURAL ARM of the United Nations, UNESCO, launched the Creative Cities Network in 2004 to promote social, economic and cultural development among cities who have identified creativity as a strategic factor and enabler for sustainable urban development. Auckland now joins the 180 members from 72 countries around the world covering seven creative fields.
Recorded Music NZ was instrumental in the rigorous process to join Auckland to the network; and in conjunction with Auckland Council and other music industry stakeholders, including APRA and NZ Music Commission, the city’s application was ratified in late 2017.
A strategy for Auckland as a UNESCO Creative City was developed in partnership with Auckland Council and endorsed by its Governing Body. The strategy was officially released yesterday and outlines the benefits the title will bring to Auckland residents, New Zealanders and international visitors.
Mark Roach at Recorded Music NZ says he’s excited about the potential the new status will have for Auckland’s future. “Music is a transformative power, not only as a cultural staple but also as an economic driver for the city. We are thrilled to receive this good news; the designation will support the development of a creative eco-system, strengthen the social fabric and position of Auckland as the music capital of the Pacific.”
Research reveals seven in ten Aucklanders have attended a music event in the last three years, making the most of a plethora of concerts and festivals held in the city. Recent NZ Music Award winners Moana Maniapoto, Opetaia Foa’i and Lorde, are among the many who have propelled Auckland music onto the world stage.
The global network will open opportunities for collaborations between the music industry and other member cities, opening the door for international cooperation and knowledge exchange.
Aucklanders can be proud to know their city has been recognised alongside 30 other international cities of music, a “creative city” with music as its vital sign, as its heartbeat.
With the strategy now completed and the website launched, Auckland City of Music is at the beginning of a journey with exciting potential for the sector, the city and its communities.