Dr. Forouhi, Secretary General of IFMST, announced: The formation of an International Committee for Modern Indigenous Music was placed on the agenda of the IFMST Board of Directors with the following objectives.
The formation of an International Committee for Modern Indigenous Music can be beneficial and necessary for several reasons:
1. Preserving and Promoting Cultural Heritage:
Protecting Endangered Musical Traditions: Many cultures have rich and unique musical traditions that are being forgotten and lost due to globalization and cultural changes. An international committee can help preserve these traditions by collecting, documenting, and archiving them.
Promoting Indigenous Music Globally: This committee can provide an opportunity to introduce various indigenous music to international audiences, raising awareness and appreciation for cultural diversity. This can be done through festivals, concerts, workshops, and the publication of audio and visual works.
2. Supporting Indigenous Artists:
Creating Professional Opportunities: The committee can assist indigenous artists in their musical development by providing scholarships, performance opportunities, artist residencies, and financial support.
Promoting Artists’ Intellectual Property Rights: This committee can provide indigenous artists with advice and support regarding intellectual property rights for their works and prevent the misuse of indigenous music.
3. Cultural Exchange and Creativity:
Creating a Platform for Intercultural Exchange: The committee can establish a space for the exchange of ideas and collaboration between indigenous artists from different cultures. This exchange can lead to the creation of innovative and exciting musical works.
Inspiring Contemporary Composers and Musicians: Indigenous music is a rich source of inspiration for contemporary composers and musicians. The committee can help enrich modern music by establishing connections between indigenous and contemporary artists.
4. Raising Awareness and Dialogue:
Raising Awareness of Cultural and Social Issues: Indigenous music can be a powerful tool for conveying cultural, social, and political messages. The committee can use music as a platform for raising awareness and dialogue on important issues within indigenous communities.
Combating Stereotypes and Discrimination: By showcasing the diversity and richness of indigenous music, this committee can help combat stereotypes and discrimination against indigenous communities.
5. Development and Innovation:
Encouraging Innovative Approaches: The committee can encourage indigenous artists to innovate within their music, thus helping to preserve the vitality and dynamism of these traditions.
Combining Indigenous Music with Modern Genres: The committee can provide opportunities for artists to combine indigenous music with modern genres, creating creative and original musical works.
Overall, the formation of an International Committee for Modern Indigenous Music can play an important role in preserving, promoting, and developing indigenous music worldwide, and help create cultural connections and creativity among artists and cultures.