This book presents key findings from a 4-year project that sought to understand Ethno Gatherings, an organized residential folk, world, and traditional music programme for young people aged 18-30. In response to three lines of enquiry, pedagogy and professional development, participant experience, and the impact it had upon those who attended, the authors examine the complexity of an Ethno music experience. By considering its history and current practices, the following themes are explored: non-formal music making, personal authenticity, holistic praxis, musical possible selves, intercultural music exchange, sustainability, social media engagement, song sharing, and future practices. Constructed through data drawn from participant observations, interviews, online social media analysis, onsite and video observations, surveys, and questionnaires the authors ask critical questions concerning Ethno’s history, ethos, pedagogy, and philosophical ideals. First held in Sweden in 1990, Ethno Gatherings are now located in over 40 countries worldwide and are part of JM Internationals youth music programmes. As a collection of integrated thought, the book’s purpose is to illuminate new understandings of what Ethno does to support its future growth and development.
