Lars Tirsbæk

Sonic College has launched a new professional knowledge network focused on the development of new concert formats and live sound experiences.

The initiative, titled New Concert Formats Network, brings together professionals from across the live music ecosystem to explore how concerts and live sound experiences are evolving.

A shared platform for the live music sector

The network connects artists, venues, festivals, managers, producers, and technology developers. Its purpose is to share knowledge, discuss emerging practices, and explore new ways of creating meaningful live sound experiences for audiences

Among the initial partners in the network are VEGA, Godset, Roskilde Festival, Meyer Sound, and Alfa Audio.

Together, the partners represent a broad cross-section of the live music sector, spanning artistic production, venue operation, and advanced audio technologies.

A responsibility to contribute and connect

As one of Europe’s leading education programmes within sound, Sonic College sees a clear responsibility to contribute to the development and dissemination of knowledge in the field.

”"As one of Europe’s largest programmes in sound, we have a responsibility to contribute to the development and sharing of knowledge. Within new concert formats, we see a significant potential in knowledge exchange. There are many strong and innovative projects being developed across the sector, and the potential for learning from each other is considerable."

Lars Tirsbæk, Head of Programme, Sonic College

Understanding the concert experience

Alongside industry collaboration, the network also connects to ongoing research at Sonic College.

”“As we begin to explore and develop new concert formats, we also need to better understand what these changes mean for the relationship between artist and audience. How are artistic intentions communicated, and how are they perceived by audiences? Drawing on research in aesthetic experience and atmosphere, we want to contribute to a deeper understanding of how changing formats influence the concert experience.”

Birgitte Folmann, Head of Research, Sonic College

Knowledge sharing and professional exchange

Through dialogue, case presentations, and professional exchange, the network aims to strengthen collaboration across the sector and support the development of new concert formats.

Sonic College facilitates the network and contributes through research, artistic development, and collaboration with industry partners, creating a bridge between practice, technology, and knowledge.

Meetings and activities

The network will meet once or twice a year, with one of the annual meetings taking place in connection with Sonic Days, Sonic College’s international conference on sound.

These meetings will provide a platform for professional presentations, case sharing, and discussions across disciplines and sectors.

Open for the industry

Participation in the New Concert Formats Network is open to professionals working with live music and sound experiences across the sector.