Students recently took part in an exciting Erasmus+ Group Mobility to Germany, where they joined fellow participants from across Europe for an intensive week of music-making, collaboration and performance (1st to 6th March, 2026).
After flying from Dublin to Frankfurt and taking several train connections, they arrived at the Bavarian Music Academy in Hammelburg. On arrival, students checked into their accommodation and were introduced to the academy’s impressive facilities.
Set within a historic monastery complex, the Music Academy Hammelburg provided a unique and inspiring setting for the mobility. The campus includes extensive music facilities such as rehearsal rooms, classrooms, practice spaces and a fully equipped concert hall, creating the ideal environment for creativity and performance.
The programme began on the evening of arrival with two opening concerts in the main hall. These performances introduced the participating artists and tutors and set the creative tone for the week ahead. Following the concerts, students from the participating institutions were divided into international project groups and bands, which they would work in throughout the camp.
Across the week, students took part in a packed schedule that included morning coaching and rehearsal sessions, afternoon rehearsals, songwriting and project development, and the innovative Business Game, where participants worked in teams simulating music industry record labels. Evenings were filled with jam sessions and showcase events, giving students further opportunities to perform, experiment and connect with others.
As the week progressed, students worked closely in their newly formed international groups to develop musical ideas, arrangements and performances, guided by professional coaches, musicians and tutors. “Against the Clock” beat production event, brought a particular highlight where participants were challenged to create a piece of music within a strict time limit. This fast-paced activity encouraged creativity, teamwork and quick decision-making.
Midway through the mobility, attention turned to refining and consolidating the work developed during the week. Intensive rehearsals, final songwriting and arrangement sessions, continued Business Game rounds and preparation for the final performance ensured that students were fully immersed in both the creative and professional aspects of the music industry.
Final rehearsals, coaching, soundchecks and technical preparation in advance of the week’s showcase event. The mobility culminated in the Final Concert where each international band performed the material they had developed during the camp. Performing in a professional concert setting was a fitting end to an inspiring and rewarding week.
This Erasmus+ Group Mobility offered students an exceptional opportunity to collaborate internationally, develop their musical and professional skills, and experience life and learning in a dynamic European setting. It was a week of creativity, cultural exchange and performance that will leave a lasting impact on all who took part.
