Special Series for zamus: Why We Gather – Behind the zamus Symposium

In this final episode of our zamus mini-series, we meet two of the driving forces behind the “Creating New Spaces” symposium: Charlotte Nachtsheim, organiser of the event, and Mélanie Froehly artistic director of zamus. Together with the artistic director of the festival Midori Seiler they have shaped the structure of the symposium and brought this idea come true.

We speak with Charlotte about the meaning of colonialism and decolonialism in the context of early music—how the field is shaped by its history, and what it means to rethink that history in today’s world. Can early music become a space for equity, awareness, and reflection?

Then, Mélanie shares her artistic vision and the story behind integrating such an important topic into a festival setting. We talk about structural challenges, curatorial decisions, and the deep personal motivation that connects both women to this work—not just as organisers, but as musicians and advocates for a more inclusive and responsible cultural scene.

Together, they explore how music and art can become a safe space—where difficult conversations are welcomed, and new perspectives can flourish.

Music in the episode:

Florence Price: Symphony No. 1 in E minor

Alice Smith (1839-1884) - Symphony in A minor

00:00 – Intro & guest introductions: Charlotte Nachtsheim & Mélanie Froehly

00:53 – Symposium theme: “Creating New Spaces”

02:09 – Colonialism & decolonisation in early music

04:49 – Problematic content & how to handle it

06:10 – Transition to Mélanie Froehly

07:07 – The concept of zamus - Center of Early Music in Cologne

08:58 – How the idea for the symposium emerged, collegial approach

11:14 – Integrating the symposium into the festival

12:40 – Present perspectives & future plans

13:18 – Personal motivation & societal change

15:22 – Sneak peek at the next zamus edition

18:40 – Outro

#EarlyMusic#DecolonisingMusic#ColonialHeritage#HistoricalPerformance#CriticalClassics#OperaReimagined#MusicAndSociety#InclusiveArts#MusicHistoryMatters#BaroqueVoices#SoundAndStory#ArtAsResistance#NewSpacesInMusic#CulturalReflection#ListeningDifferently