Music and Culture 

11-15 December 2023, Neufchâteau (Belgium)

Coordinating Institution: École Fondamentale Libre Saint Joseph, Neufchâteau, Belgium

Partner Institutions: Bağlarbaşı İlkokulu (Türkiye) and Amicus Junior Kindergarten (Romania)

On the first day of the meeting, the participants gathered in Belgium for a welcome session where they were introduced to the project's aims, the weekly program, and logistics. The teams from Belgium, Türkiye, and Romania met each other, fostering a collaborative and friendly atmosphere from the outset.

The second day focused on Belgian music and its cultural significance. The participants explored a variety of Belgian music genres and traditional instruments through demonstrations and practical activities. They discussed the importance of music in Belgian cultural heritage and daily life.

On the third day, the group visited a local music museum or a cultural centre dedicated to Belgian music. Through guided tours and interactive experiences, they deepened their knowledge of both traditional and contemporary music in Belgium. Later, they took part in a workshop to create choreography or short performances inspired by Belgian musical traditions.

The fourth day continued with hands-on learning cantered on traditional Belgian instruments. Participants discovered various instrument types, tried different playing techniques, and discussed the historical context behind their use in Belgian folklore.

On the fifth day, the teams visited a workshop or music store to observe how traditional Belgian instruments are produced. They engaged in practical music-making sessions, composing a collaborative piece using the instruments they had learned about during the week.

On the final day, the teachers evaluated the week's activities, shared reflections, and discussed the next steps regarding upcoming project meetings and online collaboration. The meeting concluded with a farewell gathering highlighting cultural exchange and friendship among the partner schools.

Throughout the week, the participating teachers experienced Belgian music and culture in an immersive and interactive way. By combining workshops, cultural visits, and creative collaboration, they expanded their knowledge of music education and developed skills that they can transfer to their classrooms. The meeting also strengthened the international bond between the schools, promoting cooperation and mutual understanding. The experiences and outcomes of this meeting are expected to contribute positively to teachers' professional growth and, ultimately, to student learning in their home institutions.