Music and dance promote self-esteem, well-being and socialization while reducing anxiety and feelings of loneliness. Can music and/or dance be used to help integrate international or relocated students into a new community?

Background:

In 2019, Leiria was awarded the prestigious title of Creative City of Music by UNESCO, and it is currently regarded as one of the main hubs of musical production in Portugal. This city hosts a variety of popular cultural events which promote artists on both a local and international scale, and it is also home to a number of century-old bands, as well as distinguished music and dance schools.

The importance of cultural and artistic education in Leiria has spurred Orfeão de Leiria, a local Arts Conservatory, in the search for new audiences, innovative methodologies and inclusive approaches that will allow more people to participate in the cultural life of the community, namely international students and students from other Portuguese cities, currently residing in Leiria.

Challenges

How can we boost the participation and involvement of international or relocated students in a way that will contribute to their integration?

What activities and methodologies might promote cultural sharing, as well as communication between participants of different origins, consequently forging a bond to the city and our institution?

What “new languages” can we use to reach this trendsetting audience and contribute to their development and engagement in cultural initiatives?