MENTORS

Lea er en kreativ iværksætter med en brændende interesse for alt det, der sker bag scenen, og hvordan kunstneriske visioner bliver til virkelighed. Som festivalleder for Festival & Friends har hun på kort tid skabt et unikt format, der udfordrer rammerne for klassisk musik. Festivalen har hurtigt opnået anerkendelse som en fornyende kraft i den danske klassiske musikscene og tiltrækker et yngre og anderledes publikum. Lea har både en uddannelse som pianist – hun modtog Leonie Sonnings Talentpris i 2020 – samt en uddannelse fra CBS, hvor hun forener kunstnerisk indsigt og strategisk tænkning. Hendes arbejde kendetegnes ved en innovativ tilgang, der skaber nye muligheder for både kunstnere og publikum.

When talking about breaking conventions and forging one's own path, Signe Hede-Tobiassen is a shining example of how creativity and thinking outside the box open doors to a livelihood in the world of music. She started as a bassist and songwriter in Nelson Can and has since worked as a manager, at record labels, and as a radio host. Signe is educated at RMC and CBS, and she has always followed her creative instincts with "meaningful work life" as the focal point for herself and the artists she has advised. Today, Signe works as the director of More Music Group, which provides digital solutions for music education.

Olav Hesseldahl is an idealistic entrepreneur deeply committed to promoting the values of democracy. He is the driving force behind initiatives such as Ungdomsbureauet and Ungdommens Folkemøde, which attract and engage up to 30,000 young people in Valbyparken each year. Trained as a philosopher, he loves questions more than answers, embraces mistakes and experiments, and has the ability to push and challenge his surroundings to new insights. He holds board positions at the Roskilde Festival and Folkemødet on Bornholm, and he currently leads the movement GRUNDLOVSFESTEN, which works to foster more community, cohesion, and dedication to democracy and the Constitution.

Anja T. Lahrmann is a composer, producer, and singer who gracefully navigates between art forms. She operates under the solo alias Excelsior, and as a composer, she has recently collaborated on the hybrid choral work 'Det yderste hav' with the Greenlandic choir, Ingiulik. She has also created sound design and music for the performance 'Hjärtat i handen' in collaboration with two choreographers. Anja T. Lahrmann's artistic practice spans widely and unfolds through unique collaborations across cultures and artistic disciplines. Her musical approach is characterized by openness, DIY ethos, and collectivism, reflecting a curious and collaborative mindset that transcends boundaries between art forms and genres.

Lil Lacy er dansk-amerikansk komponist og eksperimenterende cellist med en nysgerrighed, der driver hendes arbejde på tværs af genrer og medier. Hun skaber musik, der forbinder mennesker, rum og historier – fra orkesterværker til installationer. Lil er kendt for at udfordre de klassiske rammer og skabe universer, hvor lydene både spejler og stiller spørgsmål til tidens store emner som klima, kultur og samfund. Med sit værk Aliento del Mar, skrevet til akkordeonist Bjarke Mogensen og Gävle Symfoniorkester, undersøger hun tidevandets kræfter og udfordringerne med plastikforureningen i havene. Lil Lacy er uddannet fra Det Jyske Musikkonservatorium og modtog Léonie Sonnings Talentpris i 2020. Hun er uddannet fra Det Jyske Musikkonservatorium og University of California San Diego og har blandt andet modtaget Léonie Sonnings Talentpris.

In her practice as a photographer and artist, Fryd Frydendahl excels at challenging herself and societal taboos with her razor-sharp artworks. Her photographs convey more than meets the eye, and she manages to be personal without becoming overly private. Fryd's work and exhibitions have reached far and wide: from New York to Copenhagen to Hvide Sande, and her pieces can be experienced at venues such as the Statens Museum for Kunst, Det Kongelige Bibliotek, and V1. She has published several books and also serves as the director of Fotoskolen Fatamorgana.

We encounter Majken Overgaard in the intersection of art, science, and technology, where her keen eye identifies new connections and synergies, creating a creative environment of fresh ideas, experiments, and inventions. She possesses a curious and innovative approach to innovation through contemporary art, speculative design, and science fiction. As part of the collective Korridor, she explores digital artistic practices and technologies that can expand the possibilities for artists and culture. Additionally, she is a frequently sought-after speaker, adept at dissecting how art can serve as a critical lens for understanding the rapidly changing digital reality.

As a member of and manager for Efterklang, a band that has been releasing albums on labels such as 4AD and City Slang since 2003, Rasmus Stolberg has carved out a sustainable livelihood in the music industry without compromising on ideals. Originally trained in Music Management from RMC, and with an inspiring ability to launch new ideas and projects – such as The Lake Foundation, which operates the internet radio station The Lake, and Badesøen Festival in Albertslund. Additionally, Rasmus is a producer and curator for Brodie Sessions, which creates and immortalizes (on 16mm film) intimate concerts with Danish and international artists.

Mikkel Schou arbejder i krydsfeltet mellem interdisciplinær kunst og eksperimenterende musik. Han er kunstnerisk leder af K!ART, et ensemble med fokus på ny instrumentalmusik og postinstrumental performancekunst, samt med-leder af MINU_festival_for_expanded_music, der hvert år udforsker grænserne mellem eksperimenterende musik og andre medier. Som kurator skaber Schou begivenheder som musikalske kompositioner, hvor værkerne indrammer og perspektiverer hinanden. Han er uddannet guitarist fra DJM og DKDM med speciale i samtidsmusik og kunstnerisk forskning og optræder med akustisk, elektrisk og pedal steel guitar, elbas og live-elektronik. Schou har modtaget Léonie Sonnings Talentpris og Fair Practice Prisen 2024.

When talking about breaking conventions and forging one's own path, Signe Hede-Tobiassen is a shining example of how creativity and thinking outside the box open doors to a livelihood in the world of music. She started as a bassist and songwriter in Nelson Can and has since worked as a manager, at record labels, and as a radio host. Signe is educated at RMC and CBS, and she has always followed her creative instincts with "meaningful work life" as the focal point for herself and the artists she has advised. Today, Signe works as the director of More Music Group, which provides digital solutions for music education.

As the founder and executive director of the award-winning non-profit organization Another Life, which focuses on representation, mental health, and discrimination, Rosa Lois Balle Yahiya has made a significant impact on the Danish music and cultural scene. Over the past decade, Rosa Lois has worked in various roles in the Danish music industry, including the live sector, interest organizations, and artist management. She is also a graduate of Music Management from the Rhythmic Music Conservatory in Copenhagen.

For Kristian, it's mostly about flow: from an early career as a rapper in UFO Yepha, solo albums, producing TV and film music, to workshops and camps for troubled youth, and up to training as a meditation instructor, he hasn't stood still. Today, Kristian is an entrepreneur in the company SoundWheel, which has developed a new way to compose and combine progressive music with visualization exercises. As CEO, Kristian utilizes his flow and focus to make the app and the company international.

When you mention director and filmmaker Phie Ambo, you're also talking about idealism and green community initiatives. With a strong belief that culture and art can make the world a better place, she has dedicated her artistic career to projects and initiatives that push for the green transition. As an award-winning director, she has worked on topics such as humans, technology, emotions, and neuroscience throughout her career. Over the past 10 years, Phie has used both her artistic and personal endeavors to promote the green agenda through films such as "70/30" and "Organized Wilderness," as well as by founding Den Grønne Friskole.

Nis Bysted possesses a unique ability to make things happen. Through his own musical projects, as a producer and mentor for influential artists, and as the head of one of the country's most progressive labels, he emerges as a creative and curious soul who has made a significant impact on the cultural landscape. His multifaceted work also reflects a special talent and understanding for engaging in various contexts and navigating multiple roles and projects simultaneously. Nis can help you see opportunities rather than limitations as he generously shares his knowledge and vast experiences.

If you're carrying around an idea for a music-tech platform aimed at making a difference in the music industry, Lars would be an excellent choice as a mentor. He is the founder of LinkFire, an international music and marketing company, and he has a keen interest in music technology and entrepreneurship. With education from Middlesex University and the IT University and over 15 years of experience as both an advisor and investor, he is known for visionary ideas and innovation in an industry that traditionally hasn't always kept up with the times.

Mika er en svensk bratschist, improvisator og sanger, bosat i København siden 2015. Med en baggrund indenfor både klassisk musik og folkemusik, er Mika en nysgerrig og eksperimenterende musiker, der arbejder på tværs af genrer. Hun er en del af strygetrioen Halvcirkel, musikerkollektivet Damkapellet og har sit eget soloprojekt, Mika Akim, hvor hendes egen musik udfoldes. Uddannet fra konservatorierne i Göteborg, Prag og København, har Mika desuden afsluttet et kunstnerisk postgradueret solistprogram på Rytmisk Musikkonservatorium i København. Hun har samarbejdet med en lang række prominente kunstnere og ensembler som Terry Riley, Roger Eno, Signe Lykke, Georg Riedel og Concerto Copenhagen. Mika er grundlægger af Damkapellet samt det uafhængige pladeselskab INGA Records.

Felicia Nørgaard is passionate about empowering young people's personal and professional development. With a background as a certified coach and a master's degree in change, as well as a long career in communication and HR from large corporations, she is more than ready to generously share her knowledge and experiences. Felicia is currently the founding director of the upcoming cultural center in Nordhavn, Nordhus, set to open its doors in 2024. Nordhus is a home for young cultural creators who will live and work together while learning about culture, food, and entrepreneurship.

Students at RMC can attest that Carolina Echeverri is always generous and engaged when sharing and imparting her extensive knowledge and experiences. With over 20 years of experience in the cultural sector, as well as being a practicing artist, Carolina has excellent qualifications to provide the right guidance. She has an extensive international network and currently works as a senior advisor for Music Export Denmark. In her own artistic practice, Carolina focuses on photography and has exhibited at festivals around the world.

Henrik Vibskov has, more than anyone else, managed to leverage his creative and artistic talent in new, exciting, and innovative ways. Since 2001, he has designed and produced collections under his own name, all while also working as a musician, curator, and artist with exhibitions worldwide. Henrik Vibskov is also a professor at the Design School in Kolding and a frequent guest lecturer at Danish and international cultural and art institutions. His multifaceted career speaks to an endlessly boundary-pushing and exploratory creativity that always engages curiously and interestedly with the context of his tasks.

Manus Bell is the director of Rapolitics, an organization that empowers youth through rap and hip-hop. In addition to his 10 years of experience working with disadvantaged youth as a rap coach and mentor, Manus Bell has made his mark on the Danish rap scene with two albums and over 100 concerts to his name. He has also left his mark in the commercial music industry as a co-founder and director of the music company Affiliated. Manus Bell has a vision of making rap a voice for people in vulnerable positions and works under the heading "to create a brave youth generation who know their rights, dare to stand up for them, and speak out against injustice."

Henrik Vibskov has, more than anyone else, managed to leverage his creative and artistic talent in new, exciting, and innovative ways. Since 2001, he has designed and produced collections under his own name, all while also working as a musician, curator, and artist with exhibitions worldwide. Henrik Vibskov is also a professor at the Design School in Kolding and a frequent guest lecturer at Danish and international cultural and art institutions. His multifaceted career speaks to an endlessly boundary-pushing and exploratory creativity that always engages curiously and interestedly with the context of his tasks.

Henrik Vibskov has, more than anyone else, managed to leverage his creative and artistic talent in new, exciting, and innovative ways. Since 2001, he has designed and produced collections under his own name, all while also working as a musician, curator, and artist with exhibitions worldwide. Henrik Vibskov is also a professor at the Design School in Kolding and a frequent guest lecturer at Danish and international cultural and art institutions. His multifaceted career speaks to an endlessly boundary-pushing and exploratory creativity that always engages curiously and interestedly with the context of his tasks.

Rikke Frisk er festivalchef med mere end 20 års erfaring i kunst- og kulturbranchen, hvor hun har arbejdet med udvikling, ledelse og strategi. Hendes arbejde er kendetegnet ved kreative løsninger, stærke relationer og en skarp forståelse for både publikum, samarbejdspartnere og kunstneriske ambitioner. Siden 2017 har Rikke været festivalchef for Copenhagen Opera Festival, hvor hun er ansvarlig for strategisk udvikling, den daglig ledelse og internationale partnerskaber. Rikke er desuden bestyrelsesleder for spillestedet ALICE og har tidligere været sekretariatsleder for WOMEX og daglig leder af STRØM. Med en baggrund fra Kunstakademiets Arkitektskole og en efteruddannelse i kunst- og kulturledelse forener hun en stærk æstetisk forståelse med en solid ledelseserfaring

Henrik Vibskov has, more than anyone else, managed to leverage his creative and artistic talent in new, exciting, and innovative ways. Since 2001, he has designed and produced collections under his own name, all while also working as a musician, curator, and artist with exhibitions worldwide. Henrik Vibskov is also a professor at the Design School in Kolding and a frequent guest lecturer at Danish and international cultural and art institutions. His multifaceted career speaks to an endlessly boundary-pushing and exploratory creativity that always engages curiously and interestedly with the context of his tasks.

Henrik Vibskov has, more than anyone else, managed to leverage his creative and artistic talent in new, exciting, and innovative ways. Since 2001, he has designed and produced collections under his own name, all while also working as a musician, curator, and artist with exhibitions worldwide. Henrik Vibskov is also a professor at the Design School in Kolding and a frequent guest lecturer at Danish and international cultural and art institutions. His multifaceted career speaks to an endlessly boundary-pushing and exploratory creativity that always engages curiously and interestedly with the context of his tasks.

Henrik Vibskov has, more than anyone else, managed to leverage his creative and artistic talent in new, exciting, and innovative ways. Since 2001, he has designed and produced collections under his own name, all while also working as a musician, curator, and artist with exhibitions worldwide. Henrik Vibskov is also a professor at the Design School in Kolding and a frequent guest lecturer at Danish and international cultural and art institutions. His multifaceted career speaks to an endlessly boundary-pushing and exploratory creativity that always engages curiously and interestedly with the context of his tasks.

Randi Pontoppidan er en internationalt anerkendt komponist, vokalist og performer, der arbejder på tværs af genrer som fri improvisation, jazz, performancekunst og elektroakustisk musik. Kendt for sine eksperimenterende vokalteknikker og live elektronisk bearbejdning skaber hun unikke lyduniverser, hvor grænserne mellem traditioner og stilarter opløses. Hun er sammenlignet med ikoner som Diamanda Galás og Maja S. K. Ratkje og har optrådt på scener som Royal Albert Hall og Carnegie Hall. Pontoppidan er flere gange nomineret til Danish Music Awards Jazz og modtog i 2020 også en nominering til Steppeulven som årets vokalist.

Henrik Vibskov has, more than anyone else, managed to leverage his creative and artistic talent in new, exciting, and innovative ways. Since 2001, he has designed and produced collections under his own name, all while also working as a musician, curator, and artist with exhibitions worldwide. Henrik Vibskov is also a professor at the Design School in Kolding and a frequent guest lecturer at Danish and international cultural and art institutions. His multifaceted career speaks to an endlessly boundary-pushing and exploratory creativity that always engages curiously and interestedly with the context of his tasks.

Henrik Vibskov has, more than anyone else, managed to leverage his creative and artistic talent in new, exciting, and innovative ways. Since 2001, he has designed and produced collections under his own name, all while also working as a musician, curator, and artist with exhibitions worldwide. Henrik Vibskov is also a professor at the Design School in Kolding and a frequent guest lecturer at Danish and international cultural and art institutions. His multifaceted career speaks to an endlessly boundary-pushing and exploratory creativity that always engages curiously and interestedly with the context of his tasks.

Henrik Vibskov has, more than anyone else, managed to leverage his creative and artistic talent in new, exciting, and innovative ways. Since 2001, he has designed and produced collections under his own name, all while also working as a musician, curator, and artist with exhibitions worldwide. Henrik Vibskov is also a professor at the Design School in Kolding and a frequent guest lecturer at Danish and international cultural and art institutions. His multifaceted career speaks to an endlessly boundary-pushing and exploratory creativity that always engages curiously and interestedly with the context of his tasks.

Neel startede sin karriere som pianist med en solistuddannelse i både klaver og kammermusik fra DKDM. Hun fik dog tidligt også interesse for arbejdet bag scenen og har siden 2017 arbejdet med festivalen Kammermusik på Lundsgaard, hvor hun i 2020 blev administrativ leder. Fra 2019 var Neel ansat hos Nordic Artists Management som artist manager og projektleder for orkesterturnéer og festivalprojekter. Siden september 2024 har Neel været musikchef i Mogens Dahl Koncertsal, hvor hun leder den kunstneriske planlægning og er ensemblechef for Mogens Dahl Kammerkor. 

Henrik Vibskov has, more than anyone else, managed to leverage his creative and artistic talent in new, exciting, and innovative ways. Since 2001, he has designed and produced collections under his own name, all while also working as a musician, curator, and artist with exhibitions worldwide. Henrik Vibskov is also a professor at the Design School in Kolding and a frequent guest lecturer at Danish and international cultural and art institutions. His multifaceted career speaks to an endlessly boundary-pushing and exploratory creativity that always engages curiously and interestedly with the context of his tasks.

Lawand Shakur Othman er en dansk-irakisk musikproducer, DJ og komponist. Siden år 2000 har han været en toneangivende pioner inden for pladespillerisme og som musikproducer og komponist til film, tv og teater. Desuden har han udmærket sig som pianist og kapelmester gennem utallige liveoptrædener både som solist og med diverse bands. Fra 1. januar 2024 til 31. december 2027 sidder han i Statens Kunstfonds legatudvalg for musik.

Andreas Groth Clausen var indtil for nyligt Chef for Partnerksaber hos Roskilde Festival-gruppen, men har nu stiftet sin egen organisation, Landjord, der beskæftiger sig med at tage landbrugsjord ud af drift og etablere vild natur i stedet. Andreas har bevæget sig i spændfeltet mellem kulturlivet og dets omverden hele sin karriere og brænder for forretningsudvikling, partnerskaber, sponsorater, markedsføring og i det hele taget at italesætte de blødere værdier i en verden, hvor de ikke altid har let ved at komme til orde.