18 Cantons, Many Perspectives
The VMS represents nearly 400 music schools organised into cantonal associations. This diversity also shaped the planning of the Radiobus tour: The cantonal organisations were deliberately involved in the project; the invitation to participate was distributed through them, and each canton could decide for itself which music schools would take part. In total, the project featured live broadcasts with different groups and classes from 18 cantons, each bringing their own topics, music and perspectives. The partnership with the Pestalozzi Children’s Foundation had also been a deliberate choice. The VMS selected a non-profit partner organisation that, according to the association, follows clear ethical and children’s rights guidelines.
Children and Young People Behind the Microphone
One of the tour’s key objectives was to give young people hands-on experience in media production. Participants became presenters and journalists, sharing music, conducting interviews and exploring topics that mattered to them. VMS President Philippe Krüttli had already emphasised before the tour how memorable the experience would be for the children and young people involved. Music and the young participants themselves were to remain at the centre of the project.
Raising the Profile of Music Schools and Building New Connections
The Radiobus tour pursued several objectives: promoting music-making and self-expression, strengthening cultural participation, and introducing the work of music schools to a wider audience. The project was also intended to reach people who previously had little or no contact with a music school as the live broadcasts at local venues and the accompanying media coverage provided different ways to engage with these audiences. For participating music schools, their increased public visibility proved particularly valuable. The collaboration between music schools and mainstream schools was another important aspect.
The tour also created opportunities for the association itself. The VMS board and office were present at every stop, maintaining valuable contacts and expanding their network. Regular updates on the association’s social media channels further helped raise awareness of the project and the music schools involved. One development that particularly pleased the association was the unexpectedly high level of media coverage. In addition to reports in various local media outlets, the anniversary project also received national attention by Swiss Radio and Television (SRF).
“We Would Do It the Same Way Again”
Asked what the association would do differently next time, its answer was clear: “Nothing, we would do it the same way again.” The VMS describes the Radiobus tour as an inspiring, educational and unifying experience. From the association’s perspective, every minute of effort was worthwhile. Alongside the experiences of the children and young people, important outcomes included the public visibility of music schools, collaboration with mainstream schools and the expansion of the association’s network.
With the Radiobus, the VMS transformed its 50th anniversary into a nationwide celebration of music and participation. Across 18 cantons, children and young people took centre stage, sharing their music, ideas and voices. The tour brought music schools and local communities together, demonstrating how an anniversary can become a shared experience that reaches far beyond a single event.
Links
VMS – Verband der Musikschulen Schweiz
Power_Up Radio by Kinderdorf Pestalozzi
