MUSIC

In all societies, music takes on a central role as a vehicle for cultural values and norms. In Denmark, subsidies are granted in the field of music to guarantee diversity and equal access for all citizens to the experience of music. Subsidies are granted for both composition and performance, including music of general public interest, music tuition, subsidies to orchestras, clubs, etc.

Subsidies in the field of music are granted pursuant to the Music Act. In 1976, Denmark became the first country in the world to adopt definitive legislation in the field of music. The Act has subsequently been amended on many occasions, most recently in 2000, with an addendum on rhythm music locales.

INSTITUTIONS
Provincial orchestras. Denmark has five provincial orchestras devoted to promoting music appreciation in their respective provinces. The five provincial orchestras are the symphony orchestras of Århus, Aalborg, South Jutland, Odense and Zealand. Provincial orchestras are obligated to arrange concerts containing a varied repertoire of older and newer classical pieces, including Nordic and especially Danish works composed after 1900.

Schools of music. Denmark has around 235 schools of music, nationwide, catering to about 134,000 pupils. These schools of music are predominantly municipal institutes, although a State subsidy covers up to 25 per cent of the expenditure for teachers’ salaries. Approximately every fifth Dane sings or plays an instrument.

Specialised courses (MGKs). In connection with the Danish schools of music, the State grants additional subsidies for specialised courses, or MGKs. MGK’s are conducted at a centrally located major school of music in each county. An MGK is a three-year introductory course designed to train performers, who in turn may stimulate music appreciation in the local community and prepare students for admission to music academies.

FINANCE
Total public spending on music in 2002 is budgeted at DKK 745.3 million, of which the State’s share is 273.2 million.


ADDRESSES

The Danish Arts Agency (Kunststyrelsen)
The Danish Arts Agency is an administrative unit under the Danish Ministry of Culture.

The agency manages the financial support provided for artists and artistic activities by the Danish state, a support granted by (primarily) The Danish Arts Council and The Danish Arts Foundation.

On behalf of the Danish state, The Danish Arts Agency also manages a continous cultural exchange between Denmark and foreign countries in the field of literature, music, theatre, and visual art.

The Danish Arts Agency acts furthermore as a service unit and attends to the bookkeeping and accounting of a number of organizations under the Danish Ministry of Culture.

Kunststyrelsen
Kongens Nytorv 3
DK-1050 Copenhagen K
ks@kunststyrelsen.dk
www.kunststyrelsen.dk
Phone: +45 33 74 45 00 (mon-fri 9-16)
Fax: +45 33 74 45 45