General information
Code: V5-2524 AR Kaluža
Period: 1.9.2025 - 31.8.2027
Project leader at FDV: doc.dr. Jernej Kaluža
Co-financiers: Ministrstvo za kulturo, Republika Slovenija
Research activity: Social sciences
Abstract
The project Slovenian Music between the Market, Audiences, and Cultural Policy: An Empirical Analysis of the Music Ecosystem is divided into four work packages (WP1–WP4):
WP1 covers the analysis of available data on the music ecosystem in Slovenia. In its first component, it analyses databases on music airplay in traditional media and on digital platforms, with a focus on genre diversity, the representation of domestic music, and networks of authors. The second component addresses broader indicators of the media and music industry, such as phonogram sales, public funding, the success of Slovenian musicians abroad, and attendance at music events. The aim of this work package is to build a data foundation for understanding the systemic characteristics of music production, distribution, and reception.
WP2 focuses on understanding the structures, challenges, and opportunities within the Slovenian music industry from the perspective of music professionals. For this purpose, we will conduct a survey and a series of in-depth interviews with different actors in the music industry (record labels, editors, representatives of collective management organisations, public institutions, managers, etc.). This will allow us to analyse how the Slovenian music scene is positioned in the national, regional, and global context, and to identify systemic obstacles and opportunities for development.
WP3 consists of a representative study of Slovenian music audiences, with the aim of obtaining a comprehensive insight into musical preferences, modes of music consumption, and the demographic characteristics of listeners. Based on the survey, we will prepare an assessment of listeners’ genre preferences, an analysis of the circumstances and modes of music listening, and an evaluation of the key demographic factors (age, gender, income, region of residence) that influence music consumption. The aim of this work package is to move beyond the notion of a homogeneous musical taste and to highlight the stratified patterns of listening in Slovenia.
WP4 synthesises the findings of the first three work packages into concrete recommendations for cultural policy and strategic planning in the field of music. It includes an analysis of existing legislative and strategic frameworks, as well as a comparative analysis of domestic and foreign practices. Particular attention will be paid to the issue of protecting local creators on digital platforms and to the role of state regulation in small and peripheral markets.
–II–
Through extensive analyses of audiences, existing databases, and interviews with stakeholders involved in shaping the Slovenian music ecosystem, the project seeks to examine closely the current state of popular music in Slovenia. Particular attention will be devoted to the difficulties faced by high-quality and less visible Slovenian musicians in reaching local audiences, gaining access to Slovenian media, and achieving international recognition.
The outcome of the project will be a set of recommendations for cultural policymakers, developed with the aim of contributing to improved conditions for the development of Slovenian music at home and abroad. In this way, the project will contribute to a better understanding of cultural industries in small peripheral markets and enable more informed action on the part of policymakers on the one hand and music professionals on the other.
The phases of the project and their realization
Initial phase: detailed planning, development of research instruments (survey, interviews), and collection of databases (months 1–4)
WP1 – Collection and analysis of empirical data on the state of popular music: collection of data on production, broadcasting/airplay, and distribution (media, platforms, other data, etc.) (months 4–18)
WP2 – Interviews and survey with stakeholders in the music industry (months 4–18)
WP3 – Audience analysis (months 9–15)
WP4 – Cultural policy and the media regulatory framework (months 12–18)
Research Organisation
https://cris.cobiss.net/ecris/si/en/project/23412
Researchers
https://cris.cobiss.net/ecris/si/en/project/23412
Citations for bibliographic records
https://cris.cobiss.net/ecris/si/en/project/23412
Key words
cultural policy, digitisation, media, music audiences, music data, music industry, music market, popular music, streaming platforms
Sustainable Development Goals
SDG9 | Industry, innovation and infrastructure
SDG17 | Partnerships for the goals
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