ORANJESTAD (AAN): The National Commission for Intangible Cultural Heritage (PCI) has announced the successful outcome of its first National Consultation with Aruba’s music sector, held on April 11, 2026, at the JFK Education Center.
The Aruba Music Sector Consultation brought together a wide range of participants, including musicians, composers, producers, educators, youth, and community members, reflecting strong engagement in the development and preservation of local music.
Under the theme “Ban Combersa di Musica na Aruba,” the event created an open platform for dialogue, idea exchange, and reflection on the current state and future of music in Aruba. The active participation of key stakeholders contributed to meaningful discussions representing the island’s diverse musical heritage.
Valuable information was gathered regarding musical traditions, current practices, methods of transmission, and the need for safeguarding cultural expressions. The Aruba Music Sector Consultation will serve as a foundation for developing the official National Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
The session also helped identify important cultural elements, practitioners, and tradition bearers within the music sector, supporting future documentation and recognition efforts.
Participants expressed strong interest in continuing such consultations, highlighting the importance of ongoing dialogue within the cultural community.
The Aruba Music Sector Consultation marks a key step toward preserving Aruba’s musical identity in line with UNESCO’s 2003 convention on safeguarding intangible cultural heritage.
