Ethno England 2006

Ethno England 2006 marked the fourth consecutive year of the programme in York, continuing its residency at York St John University as part of the global Ethno network by Jeunesses Musicales International. The ten-day gathering brought together around 20 young musicians from diverse cultural backgrounds to share traditional music through oral, peer-to-peer learning.

Working as an ephemeral “transglobal big band,” participants taught each other tunes by ear, creating a level playing field that valued each tradition equally. Alongside rehearsals and informal jam sessions, the musicians led workshops in local schools and migrant centres, strengthening connections with the wider community. The residency concluded with a concert tour presenting collaborative, border-crossing arrangements of folk and world music, reflecting Ethno’s commitment to intercultural exchange and shared artistic growth.