WOMEX 2023 in A Coruña, Spain, reached its triumphant conclusion at the Teatro Colón last week, leaving a lasting impression on attendees. Furthermore, the 29th edition of this high profile world music event, which spanned five days, brought together artists, music professionals, and enthusiasts from all corners of the world. Consequently, the diverse audience reflected the event’s commitment to celebrating diversity.
During the grand finale, there was an unforgettable performance by BCUC, Johannesburg’s renowned group, who received the prestigious WOMEX Artist Award for 2023. Additionally, the event honored On The Move with the WOMEX 2023 Professional Excellence Award and celebrated independent recording labels with the 20 Top Labels of the Year presentation.
This year’s WOMEX was a melting pot of cultures and musical genres. It featured 2,750 music professionals from 105 countries, 220 performing artists, 60 artist showcases, 18 music-based documentaries, and a conference with 96 speakers and mentors. The trade fair saw 703 exhibiting companies, over 250 stands, and a radio studio on-site.
Importantly, WOMEX’s essence lies in connecting artists with industry professionals, fostering collaborations, and promoting diversity and inclusivity. The event addressed pressing issues, from music and migration to technology and AI, Indigenous languages, and the role of women, nonbinary gender, and ethnic minorities in the arts.
Moreover, A Coruña’s city center transformed into a musical haven, highlighting an impressive array of genres from around the world, while the film program at the historic Filmoteca de Galicia offered a fascinating selection of 18 music documentaries.
The next edition of WOMEX will take in place in Manchester, UK. Read more at WOMEX Embarks on a Journey to Manchester for Its 30th Anniversary Edition in 2024.
Author: World Music Central News Room
World music news from the editors at World Music Central