Who is CISM?
The Confédération Internationale des Sociétés Musicales (CISM) was founded in 1949 as a voluntary federation of national and international music societies. Today, CISM represents approximately 18,000 music societies and nearly 1 million active musicians across Europe and beyond.
As a recognized member of UNESCO, CISM serves as the foremost international voice for amateur music societies, fostering cultural exchange and promoting the enduring value of music education and performance worldwide.
Three pillars of our mission
Preserve, foster and promote music culture
CISM is dedicated to safeguarding musical heritage while encouraging innovation and creativity. Through festivals, competitions, and cultural exchange programs, we ensure that music remains a vibrant and accessible part of community life across all member nations.
Represent common interests of international members
As the unified voice of music societies worldwide, CISM advocates for the interests of its members vis-a-vis governments, international organizations, and society at large. We work to secure recognition, funding, and support for amateur music at every level.
Promote music education and training
CISM champions the advancement of music education through workshops for conductors and instrumental teachers, exchange of best practices, and the development of standards that elevate the quality of musical instruction across all member countries.
Leadership
Valentin Bischof
President
🇨🇭Switzerland
Andrea Romiti
Vice President & PR/Communications
🇮🇹Italy
Heiko Schulze
Committee Head "Music"
🇩🇪Germany
Ludovic Laurent-Testoris
Committee Head "Network"
🇫🇷France
Daniel Leskovic
Committee Head "Finance"
🇸🇮Slovenia
Vicente Cerda Garcia
Director "Relationship"
🇪🇸Spain
Dr. Noel Camilleri
Auditor
🇲🇹Malta
UNESCO Member Organization
CISM holds formal membership with UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. This partnership underscores our commitment to preserving cultural heritage and promoting music as a universal language that transcends borders.
Visit UNESCO