Music world writes open letter against cutting subsidies for folk and jazz

Musicians are voicing strong opposition to the Flemish government's decision to cut subsidies for folk and jazz music. Following protests, a group of artists has penned an open letter, organized by vzw MuziekMozaiek, to express their dismay over the withdrawal of funding that will impact initiatives like folk music workshops and the Gooikoorts festival starting next year.

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The folk sector is today a thriving community of musicians, singers and dancers of all ages in an open and inclusive atmosphere. Where else do you find that today? There is no folk musician in Flanders who has not come into contact with the work of MuziekMozaiek in one way or another.

Minister Caroline Gennez's decision to cease funding for jazz and folk music has drawn criticism from prominent figures in the music scene, including Guy Swinnen of The Scabs. The open letter boasts signatures from well-known artists such as Johan Verminnen, Soetkin Baptist, Eva De Roovere, Kadril, Lize Fereyn, Aster Nzeyimana, and Jan Hautekiet. Swinnen emphasized the foundational role of folk music, stating, "Folk, along with blues, is the basis of music." He stressed the importance of preserving this genre, which is integral to cultural history and roots, warning of significant consequences for the sector if subsidies disappear.

Last weekend, a protest action in Gooik saw approximately 600 folk musicians symbolically play 'the last note' against the subsidy cuts. The open letter highlights the vibrant and inclusive community within the folk sector, comprising musicians, singers, and dancers of all ages. It criticizes the abrupt termination of support for MuziekMozaiek's over 50 years of work, noting the procedure lacks a second chance, right to defense, or consultation, effectively closing the books on the organization's efforts.

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It concerns a life's work of more than 50 years that is being put at risk so easily by a document. The procedure provides for no second chance, no right to defense, no support or consultation. Close the books, period.

While acknowledging the need for budgetary choices, the musicians implore the minister to consider the severe repercussions for thousands of artists. The letter argues that while the government may favor commercial mainstream music and large festivals, other genres also deserve the right to exist. Small festivals, clubs, and cafes play a vital role in nurturing musicians' growth. A meeting between vzw MuziekMozaiek and the relevant minister is scheduled for September 1st to discuss the matter further.

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We understand that budgetary choices must be made, but we ask the minister to take into account the severe consequences for thousands of musicians.