Musical opportunities
This 15th edition of YourStage Urban features dynamic workshops, captivating performances, and exclusive masterclasses led by renowned artists such as Mekki, JM, Umit-C and Donny. It provides a unique platform for young people in The Hague to develop their skills in rap, singing, and performance. These masterclasses offer participants the opportunity to collaborate with well-known Dutch rappers, urban musicians, and other pioneers in the music industry, offering invaluable insights into the professional world of music creating opportunities for young urban talent. With diversity, culture, and talent development at its core. Investing in music and culture reflects a commitment to a more peaceful, just, and inclusive society.
"YourStage Urban is more than a stage; it’s a space for growth, creative exchange, and celebrating diversity. We aim to put urban culture in The Hague on the map and inspire participants with new experiences. The programme not only helps them develop their artistic skills but also builds their confidence, networks, and visibility. It’s a safe environment where they can grow both as artists and individuals."
Coach JM Fuego
About the hub
Musicon in The Hague, the vibrant and creative hub hosting YourStage Urban, offers an ideal setting for this initiative. Since its foundation in the 1990s in response to the need for rehearsal spaces, pop music lessons, and a stage for live performances, Musicon has become a dynamic cultural centre and stage for live performances. The founders, Cesar Zuiderwijk, drummer of Golden Earring, and Alejandro Milberg, an Argentine documentary maker and dissident, created a unique cultural hub. Over the years, Musicon has become a vibrant and inclusive all-round pop music center, offering rehearsal rooms, a music school, workshops, and a café. With over 400 bands performing annually and 15,000 concertgoers, Musicon fosters music education and talent development, providing a platform for both emerging and established musicians.
Repeated success
The impact of YourStage Urban is evident in the success of artists who started their journeys here. Notable names such as Chavante, Kingsize, Frenna, F1rstman, Mula B, LouiVos, SFB, and Shafique Roman all began their careers with YourStage Urban, demonstrating the programme’s ability to nurture talent and open doors to professional opportunities. The new season kicks off on Saturday, 1 February. Over the following weeks, participants will work towards a final presentation, where they will showcase what they’ve learned during the programme.
The Indorock movement
The Hague has a rich and diverse music scene that has produced a remarkable amount of talent over the years. A key historical factor was the rise of the Indorock movement in the 1950s, brought by the Indonesian community in the city, which left a lasting impact on Dutch pop music. Today, The Hague’s music sector thrives on strong collaboration between musicians, cultural organisations, and venues, creating a supportive ecosystem for talent development. The municipality plays a supporting role through various funding schemes, with an estimated annual investment of around five million euros in the sector. Musicon is a strong example of an independent organisation that, with municipal support, contributes to the growth of local musicians. This aligns with the city’s cultural policy, which prioritises fostering creators and talent to ensure a vibrant cultural landscape.
Picture credit and source: https://indo-rock.jimdofree.com/the-story-of-indo-rock-english/
Music as a force for connection
Through initiatives like YourStage Urban, The Hague continues to champion music as a unifying force. By nurturing young talent and providing opportunities for creative expression, the city strengthens its position as a place where culture and community come together to create a safer, more just, and peaceful world.
"The Hague has a rich musical history, this is something we really cherish. That's why it’s important to continue creating space for new talent. Music connects people, encourages dialogue, and contributes to a safer and more just society. By supporting creativity, we allow people to develop their skills and build a community. This is how the musical legacy of The Hague is carried on."
Saskia Bruines, councillor for Finance, Culture and Economic Development
More about the talent from The Hague
Dutch documentary about first Indorock-Rap in the Netherlands
Two old Indorock musicians and two young rappers, all from The Hague South West, get to know each other and each other's music styles better. Based on this experience, they write the first Indorock-Rap in the Netherlands with the help of a top producer.
Read more about the circular rooftop of Musicon
The new rooftop will be inaugurated on Sunday 9 Februari 2025 at 14.00 uur.
