SoundTrack_Cologne brings together a diverse range of associations and collectives representing composers across Europe – from film and media music professionals to advocates for gender equity and artistic rights. Our goal is to highlight the richness, variety, and shared challenges of today’s composing community. Whether you're a creator, industry professional, or simply passionate about music, this resource offers insight into the organizations shaping the future of composition in Europe.
ECSA represents over 50 composer and songwriter organizations from more than 25 countries. It advocates for fair remuneration, strong copyright protection, artistic freedom, and better working conditions across Europe.
A professional association for commissioned composers in Germany (TV, film, advertising, games), founded in 1989. Offers industry networking, legal advice, discounts (e.g., GEMA monitoring), and member support.
A specialist group within the German Composers Association (DKV), representing over 200 film composers. Advocates for professional standards, fair conditions, and networking with the film industry.
A German association representing composers working in media such as film, television, advertising, audiobooks, and radio plays. Focuses on professional rights and visibility.
WIFT Germany (founded 2005, over 3,500 members) is part of WIFT International – a global network supporting women in film, television, and digital media through events, panels, and industry initiatives.
Founded in 2014, AWFC promotes women and gender-diverse composers working in media. Activities include mentorships, industry advocacy, directories, and curated concerts.
Founded in Zurich in 2005, this Swiss platform promotes film music through events like SoundTrack Zurich, competitions, and the Swiss Film Music Encyclopedia.
A German network for women working in film sound – including sound design, mixing, and editing. Aims to increase visibility and challenge gender stereotypes in the film audio sector.
SWAN is a Swiss association dedicated to promoting gender equality and diversity in the audiovisual industry. It supports women and underrepresented professionals across film, TV, and media through advocacy, networking, research, and political engagement. SWAN aims to create more inclusive structures and opportunities within the creative sector in Switzerland.
A national network promoting visibility, equality, and collaboration among women in the German music industry through mentoring, advocacy, and networking.
A collective that advocates for gender equality among screenwriters and composers in France, promoting diversity, mentorship, and representation in authorship.
Austria’s largest association of professional composers (founded 1913). Represents all musical genres, including electroacoustic and popular music. Based in Vienna.
Established in 2018 from the merger of several Swiss organizations, Sonart advocates for the rights and working conditions of self-employed musicians and composers in Switzerland.
ACMF is the Italian association representing film and audiovisual composers. It advocates for artistic and professional recognition, copyright protection, and fair working conditions. The organization also fosters collaboration with the film industry and promotes Italian film music nationally and internationally.
An international organization (with strong presence in the U.S. and UK) for media composers and lyricists. Provides advocacy, professional development, and networking opportunities.
An organization supporting screen and media composers in Belgium, fostering collaboration and protecting professional interests.
A professional association for Dutch media music composers. Focuses on rights advocacy, education, and industry standards.
CAS represents Serbian composers and musicologists, organizing events like the International Review of Composers in Belgrade. It supports new music creation, advocates for copyright protection, and promotes Serbian collegiate music both locally and at European festivals.
Founded in 1945, DSS is Slovenia’s voluntary professional association of composers and musicologists. It publishes scores and CDs, organizes concerts and contemporary music festivals, and safeguards members’ legal and international publishing interests. Notably, DSS runs its own publishing division (Edicije DSS) and awards the annual Kozina Prize.
The main representative body for composers in Estonia, supporting creators of contemporary music. ECU promotes performance, publication, and professional rights for Estonian composers on both national and international stages.
The official Macedonian composers’ association, representing national composers and media music professionals, active in cultural advocacy and membership within European composer federations.
The Slovak union of pop music authors and performers, representing songwriters and media composers. It oversees collective rights, supports contemporary popular music creation, and participates in European composer networks.
Iceland’s collective rights management entity for composers, authors, and performers. STEF administers licensing for broadcasts, live events, and media use, ensuring fair remuneration and legal enforcement for creators.
NOPA is a Norwegian association representing lyricists and composers working in media music, pop, and film. It supports members via royalty management, creative networking, and member advocacy.
BFM is Denmark’s professional association representing film and media composers. It provides collective bargaining, rights advocacy, networking opportunities, and connects Danish media composers with broader industry stakeholders.
Polyphonia is a Danish initiative supporting women and gender-minority composers in Denmark. The network offers mentoring, showcases underrepresented composers, and fosters diversity within the Danish contemporary music scene.
