Our Vision
The European Music School Union (EMU) is the leading European voice for music and art schools, actively advancing their recognition as indispensable pillars of cultural and educational life and working to further embed music and arts education as a priority in European and national policies.
The EMU represents and empowers music and art schools as vital institutions for creativity, cultural diversity, and lifelong learning – from early childhood education through active engagement in communities to talent development and preparation for advanced studies.
Our Mission
The European Music School Union advocates for equitable and inclusive access to high-quality music and arts education for all at European and international levels.
As the umbrella organization of national associations, the EMU supports and empowers its members to advocate for this at national, regional, and local levels.
- Promoting cultural diversity, inclusion, and human rights in music and arts education
- Strengthening the role of music and art schools in European cultural and educational policy through advocacy and by advancing knowledge, innovation, sustainability, and capacity building at all levels
- Enhancing the continuous development of quality and creativity in music and arts education through exchange, professional training, and sharing of best practice
- Strengthening frameworks for high-quality teaching and learning by advocating for resilient organisational structures, fair working conditions, and attractive and sustainable career pathways for educators and leaders.
- Amplifying the voices of students and educators by fostering participation and exchange, including through festivals and collaborative formats
- Building partnerships and alliances across Europe, building at strong and cohesive voice for music and arts education
Our Values
The European Music School Union stands for an inclusive and culturally diverse Europe,founded on the principles of peace, democracy, and human dignity. We believe that cultural diversity, participation, and creativity are vital to achieving a sustainable, fair and thriving society. In all its endeavours, the EMU is committed to upholding the International Music Council’s Five Music Rights as a universal framework, ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to express, experience and engage with music. By recognizing music and arts education as a fundamental right, we uphold these values and empower future generations to create a better, more sustainable world.
- Cultural Diversity & Inclusion – safeguarding diverse traditions and ensuring equitable access for all
- Human & Cultural Rights – supporting the universal right to participate in music and arts education
- Educational Excellence & Innovation – fostering creativity, interdisciplinary collaboration, and digital transformation
- Social Cohesion & Engagement– strengthening participation, community building and youth empowerment
- Sustainability – committing to environmentally responsible and future-oriented practices
The role of the EMU and music and art schools in society
Music and art schools are vibrant spaces for creativity, cultural engagement and community development. They preserve a rich variety of traditions and practices while embracing innovation and new forms of artistic expression. They empower young people, strengthen social cohesion, and contribute to the development of societies that are democratic, inclusive, sustainable, and innovative.
The EMU supports this role by advocating at the European level, fostering partnerships across the cultural and educational sectors, promoting innovation in teaching and learning, and strengthening the visibility of music and art schools as vital institutions in Europe’s cultural landscape.
