The event, held under the theme “Nordic Values and Identity,” brought together a wonderfully diverse group of people who share a commitment to strengthening higher music education through collaboration, dialogue, and shared experiences. For me, it was an invaluable opportunity to network with Nordic and Baltic colleagues and learn more about collaboration facilitated by NordplusMusic.
From the very start, there was a tangible sense of energy and curiosity in the air. After a warm welcome from LMTA’s rector Judita Žukienė and ANMA’s chair Markus Utrio, we heard an engaging keynote by Ann Werner that sparked many thoughtful reflections. The breakout discussions that followed allowed everyone to dive deeper into questions of identity, values, and the role of music education in an ever-changing world.
The day continued with presentations from several Nordplus music networks – NordClassic, NordPuls, NordTrad, NordOpera, and Act-inArt – each highlighting innovative projects and collaborative efforts happening across our institutions. Later in the afternoon, a panel discussion on the future of Nordic collaboration raised important questions and ideas about where we’re headed together. The day ended beautifully with an entertaining concert in the Grand Hall by the talented LMTA students, followed by an evening dinner.
On the second day, Friday, the participants gathered for smaller sessions tailored to their roles – ANMA’s general assembly, the IRC meeting, and student discussions all ran in parallel. These sessions offered time to focus on practical questions and future planning.
What stood out most throughout the two days was the spirit of openness and shared purpose. It’s not every day that people from so many countries – the Nordic and Baltic countries plus associated partner country Germany – come together with such a sense of unity. Whether during official sessions or casual coffee breaks, the forum reminded us that collaboration isn’t just a goal, it’s a process we build together, and it’s what the world needs now more than ever.
I left Vilnius with new ideas, deeper connections, and a crystallized sense of what it means to be part of this Nordic-Baltic community of music education. A heartfelt thank you to LMTA for their generous hosting, and to everyone who contributed to making the forum such an inspiring experience. And, as the Team Finland photo below shows, sometimes you must go far to actually have time to chat with your local colleagues.
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Text: Henri Annala, Senior Lecturer & International Coordinator, Tampere University of Applied Sciences
