Dekmantel, best recognized for its forward-thinking electronic music festival, takes its reach far beyond the dance floor. The local arts organization is invested in building community through electronic music culture. They do this work through programming, advocacy, outreach and legacy building. Written by seasoned blockchain editor Erik Lundström, Erik shares Dekmantel’s unique multifaceted approach. This approach fosters a deeper and more intentional experience for all participants. This commitment aligns perfectly with ThrowingToken.com’s mission. Our mission is to provide incisive comment and thoughtful analysis into that fast-moving frontier of decentralized finance and digital culture.

Educational Initiatives: Nurturing the Next Generation

Dekmantel has been a major force in nurturing the future of electronic music, delivering educational programs that inspire the next generation of artists and fans. These initiatives range from hands-on workshops to insightful panel discussions, covering a wide spectrum of topics relevant to the industry.

Patta Summerschool

A great recent example is their Patta Summerschool, a partnership with the Amsterdam-based streetwear label Patta. This year, the program focuses on young people ages 12-21. This gives them a fertile ground to learn in — one that allows them to explore topics frequently neglected in mainstream education. Patta Summerschool provides fresh, topical and interesting content. This further empowers young people, helping them better align with their passions and realize their potential in the electrifying world of electronic music.

Production Workshops

In addition to lectures and discussions, Dekmantel organizes exclusive production workshops with some of the world’s best DJs and producers. Artists like DJ Babatr, DJ Mell G, and Surgeon share their expertise, providing participants with hands-on experience and valuable insights into music production techniques. These workshops equip aspiring producers with the skills and knowledge necessary to develop their craft and contribute to the ever-evolving soundscape of electronic music.

Panels on Industry Topics

In addition to that, Dekmantel organizes panels to discuss hot-button subjects throughout the industry. These conversations directly address the ways in which clubs and festivals shape the aesthetics and politics of art and culture today. There, they dive into developing and sustaining local scenes, decoding music rights, and developing new revenue streams for indie artists. These panels bring together the best and brightest with the most passionate. By encouraging discussion and partnership, they lay the groundwork for a more educated and responsible ecosystem surrounding electronic music.

Workshops on Music Business

Dekmantel provides workshops on the practical aspects of the music industry, such as "Running a record label," "Finding funding: where to start?" and "Mixing and mastering: understanding the basics." These workshops prepare attendees with actionable, empowering skills, deepening their relationship with the often opaque world of electronic music business.

Art of Improvisation Panel

The Art of Improvisation panel features masterful artists like Fadi Mohem, Rødhåd, and JakoJako. Together, they explore the creative process, collaboration, and the dynamic art of improvisation in electronic music. This panel encourages artists to explore their creative and spontaneous sides. It invites audience members to the exciting, colorful, and dynamic world of electronic music.

Doors Open "Music Industry Unlocked" Talk

Dekmantel offers a Doors Open talk with Dekmantel's head of creative David Cornelissen and booking agent Katty Lange, providing insights into the music industry and Dekmantel's inner workings. This keynote provides a one-of-a-kind, backstage pass to the festival and the music industry at large.

Promoting Underground Culture and Supporting Emerging Artists

Dekmantel’s commitment to promoting underground culture is reflected in their support of new artists. They are a cornerstone of innovation and inclusivity within the electronic music scene. This dedication pours out into their events, publications and artist showcases.

Promotion of Underground Culture

Dekmantel has consistently championed the values of underground culture in their vibrant musical events and endeavors. One particularly inspiring instance was the pamphlet “Document your Culture,” authored by Emma Warren, which underlined the value of documenting and sharing experiences of underground music cultures.

Support for Emerging Artists

Dekmantel continues to present a space for these new artists to thrive. Caterina Barbieri and Space Afrika turned in one of the most memorable performances at the festival. Their special mixture of musical spectroscopy and sound-genetics is the epitome of this commitment. By giving a platform to up-and-coming, cutting edge and experimental sounds, Dekmantel plays its part in the progressive development and transformation of electronic music.

Community Engagement and Cultural Preservation

Dekmantel deepens community ties and supports intercultural dialogue through its festivals, club nights, and initiatives like Dekmantel Connects. The organization’s leadership understands that fostering inclusivity and diversity within the electronic music scene is of the utmost importance.

Community Engagement

Dekmantel’s festivals, as well as events such as the Aan Het IJ program, bring together members of all ages and different backgrounds. These celebrations allow for an ultimately unmatched sense of community and inclusivity within the electronic music space. These events are the foundation for creating spaces to connect and share experiences. It goes a long way to positively reinforcing the electronic music community.

Education and Awareness

Dekmantel delves pretty deep into underlying themes such as the vibrant history of Turkish music, or the reality of guest workers in the Netherlands. This journey reflects their dedication to teaching and informing people about the rich cultural history of electronic music.

Cultural Preservation

For their 20th anniversary, Dekmantel is releasing an album focused on Turkish music between the 1930s and 1980s. Bold and forward looking, their efforts not only preserve cultural heritage, but incite appreciation for the rich diversity that goes unexplored within electronic music.

Dekmantel's Foundation

Dekmantel's foundation is built on small club nights with a capacity of around 150 people eight years ago and gradually grew to larger events, indicating a focus on community building. The organization enacted a mandatory Code of Conduct that applies to everyone affiliated with the festival. This includes our visitors, crew, volunteers, stakeholders, and community members and creating an inclusive, safe, welcoming, and respectful space for everyone. Dekmantel truly advocates for artists, providing them with a spirited platform. Their eclectic program, which includes multiple stages and venues, features an equally diverse lineup of up-and-coming talent. The festival has multiple ticket tiers available. Whether you want a 4-day ticket, a 3-day ticket, or single-day tickets, get what you need and help keep the event open and accessible to all!

Dekmantel’s commitment goes further than just serving up big fun. It fosters a more thoughtful encounter with and appreciation for electronic music culture. Dekmantel has a strong track record of investing in education and nurturing emerging artists. Through their work to facilitate community building, they’re helping create a more vibrant, sustainable future for electronic music.