RITMIKS Catalonia – European Youth Music Festival 2025

From 29 May to 1 June 2025, Catalonia became a vibrant meeting point for Europe’s young music community as more than 4,000 young musicians from 18 countries gathered for the 15th European Youth Music Festival.
© ACEM

This decentralised festival format reflected one of the defining strengths of music schools: being deeply rooted in community life and making culture accessible to everyone. In Catalonia especially, the social impact of music schools and their role in participation, inclusion, and cultural life are considered essential values.

Beyond rehearsals, concerts, and workshops, the festival became a space for friendship, collaboration, and shared European spirit — an inspiring reminder of how music education contributes not only to artistic development, but also to social cohesion and democratic culture.

Those interested in learning more about the Catalan music school movement and its educational vision are encouraged to explore the ACEM anniversary publication CONTRA(A)PUNTS, reflecting on 30 years of music education, cultural participation, and community engagement in Catalonia.


Links

RITMIKS festival website

ACEM