Primavera Sound and the Future of Culture: Young Creators at the Center of the Scene

The Primavera Sound Foundation launches the third edition of "Make Your Own Festival," an inspiring initiative where leaders and students come together to explore the fusion of culture and learning.

Students from the 2024-25 edition of the project 'Crea el teu propi festival' during the presentation of the series at Fabra i Coats. Photo by Gisela Serra Chico.

In a space where ideas intertwine with the transformative power of music, Fabra i Coats in Barcelona served as the backdrop for an inspiring conversation on October 23rd. Featuring key figures from Primavera Sound, such as Alberto Guijarro, the event marked the kickoff for the third edition of the project "Make Your Own Festival," an initiative by the Primavera Sound Foundation where high school students create their own music festival at school in tandem with the prestigious event. The opening talk provided a unique opportunity to reflect on how festivals and education can merge to empower new generations and foster their participation in culture.

Alberto Guijarro, co-director of the festival, shared his excitement about the evolution of Primavera Sound, which has grown from its modest beginnings to become a global reference. “Music has the power to unite and transform. Our mission is to make everyone feel part of this experience,” Guijarro stated. He emphasized the importance of a diverse artistic vision to attract an international audience and transform Barcelona's cultural scene, explaining the festival's impact on the local economy and tourism.

Alberto Guijarro, co-director of the Primavera Sound festival. Photo by Gisela Serra Chico.

Blanca Gallo, project coordinator, highlighted how the Primavera in Schools program has facilitated the integration of music and culture in educational institutions like the Institut Milà i Fontanals, the Institut Verdaguer, and the Institut Vall d’Hebrón. “Involving young people in cultural creation from school is fundamental to their development. We want them to discover their passion for art and become agents of change,” Gallo affirmed.

Participating students also shared their experiences. One commented, “Creating a music festival in school gives me the chance to learn how the production world works, from booking artists to scheduling. It's an incredible opportunity to acquire practical skills.”

Blanca Gallo and Laya Martí interviewed by TMN’s reporter Alex López. Photo by Gisela Serra Chico.

One of the most resonant topics was sustainability in large cultural events. Guijarro explained how Primavera Sound has embraced ecological practices to minimize its environmental footprint, responding to an increasingly urgent social demand in times of climate crisis. “It’s not just about putting on a great festival; it’s about making a responsible festival,” he added, highlighting initiatives from waste management to sustainable transport, showcasing the festival's commitment to real and necessary change in the sector.

The event concluded with a dialogue between Guijarro and Gallo that delved into the future of festivals, accessibility, and inclusion. “Music and culture can be powerful tools for social transformation. It is our responsibility to ensure that everyone has access to these experiences,” Gallo shared, reflecting how these values can positively impact communities.

TMN has conducted interviews with Guijarro, Blanca Gallo, and the participating students in the project, which will be published soon on our platforms. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn about their stories and visions for the future of culture and education. Follow us on social media to hear the youth's voice!

Students at Fabra i Coats during the project presentation. Photo by Gisela Serra Chico.