FAI has partnered with Jeunesses Musicales International (JM International) to bring Ethno to the United States, together with local and national stakeholders. The first Ethno USA took October 2021 in Asheville, NC, with performances at the LEAF festival. The next Ethno USA is scheduled for October 2022!
What is Ethno?
Ethno is JM International’s program for folk, world and traditional music with a thirty-year history that began in Sweden in 1990. Present today in over thirty countries, Ethno engages young musicians ages 16-30 through a series of international music camps and activities. Ethno’s democratic peer-to-peer learning approach facilitates and promotes intercultural dialogue in the spirit of generosity, respect and openness.
How does Ethno work?
Ethno is based on peer-to-peer workshops wherein participants from around the world teach each other music from their respective cultures. Musicians are asked to prepare a song or tune in advance. All teaching and learning is done by ear and participants are divided into workshop groups by section — rhythm, melody, wind, vocal etc. Ethno artistic mentors are present before and during workshops to lend a helping hand. During an Ethno, participants probably attend 15-16 workshops and learn as many tunes. It all culminates in public showcases which can be standalone concerts, or connected to a larger festival. Ethnos also make professional audio recordings and livestream their concerts.
Learn more about Ethno here.
Ethno has ten full scholarships for Ethno USA available to deserving musicians within the US who are representative of the country’s vast cultural diversity. You can indicate on the application if you’d like to be considered for a scholarship!