From 27 February to 2 March 2025, the AEC Pop & Jazz Platform (PJP) brought together over 150 participants from more than 20 countries at the Conservatorio Superior de Música de Navarra (CSMN) in Pamplona, Spain. 

The 19th edition of the event focused on the theme “Mother Tongue: European Identities in Heritage, Pedagogy, and Repertoire,” sparking discussions on how language shapes artistic identity, repertoire choices, and pedagogical approaches in jazz and popular music education.

The programme featured a diverse range of panel discussions, breakout sessions, and interactive workshops, exploring key themes such as the influence of language on jazz and popular music education, the balance between tradition and innovation in teaching methodologies, and the impact of international collaboration on higher music education. Through in-depth conversations, participants examined how heritage and language shape artistic identity, repertoire choices, and pedagogical approaches across different institutions and cultural contexts.

In addition to the formal sessions, the platform facilitated student-led discussions, networking opportunities, and live performances, further strengthening the sense of community and shared learning among participants. The event highlighted the importance of cross-border dialogue and exchange in shaping the future of pop and jazz education in Europe.

The AEC extends its gratitude to CSMN’s staff and students, the speakers, panelists, performers, and all attendees for their valuable contributions to this year’s platform.

Looking ahead, the AEC Pop & Jazz Platform 2026 will be hosted by Metropolia University of Applied Sciences in Helsinki, Finland. More details will be announced in the coming months.

Click here to read the event’s programme

Enjoy the event’s photo gallery here.