Nov 1 • Frances Barber-Shillito

Amsterdam Dance Event Conference Highlights 2023: A Festival of Music, Rhythm, and Unity

I returned to this year's Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) 2023.

As always, it swept the vibrant city of Amsterdam into a whirlwind of music, rhythms, and incredible energy. This annual event, which took place from October 18th to 22nd, brought together industry professionals and artists from all corners of the globe. With a lineup that boasted some of the biggest names in electronic music across its panels, attendees and club nights, ADE 2023 promised an experience like no other. Let's dive into the highlights and magic that this year's event had to offer.

ADE has always been more than just a music festival; it celebrates electronic music culture in all facets. From intimate club events to grand-scale arena shows, ADE offered an eclectic range of experiences across Amsterdam. 

Highlights:

The Lineups: ADE 2023 showcased an impressive lineup that spanned across the electronic music spectrum. From techno titans like Carl Cox and Nina Kraviz to house legends like The Martinez Brothers, every corner of electronic music was well-represented.

Daytime Gatherings/Meetings: ADE's conference aspect is as essential as its musical offerings. The daytime program featured insightful panels, workshops, and keynote speakers, providing a platform for artists and industry experts to share their knowledge and experiences. Topics ranged from music production techniques to discussions on the evolving landscape of the electronic music industry and, most importantly for me, safety in nightlife and clubbing.

ADE Green: Sustainability took centre stage at ADE 2023. The ADE Green program aimed to minimise the environmental impact of the event, focusing on initiatives like waste reduction, energy efficiency, and sustainable transportation options.

ADE University: ADE University offers a unique opportunity for students and young professionals to delve into the world of electronic music. Workshops, lectures, and networking events provided invaluable insights for those looking to kickstart their careers in the industry.

What else?

ADE Art: Beyond the music, ADE Art curated a collection of immersive installations and visual experiences, complementing the auditory journey with stunning visuals and thought-provoking art.

Club Takeovers: Amsterdam's legendary clubs, from the iconic Melkweg to the underground haven Shelter, played host to performances that kept the energy levels going well into the early hours.

Cultural Exchange: ADE's international appeal was evident in the diverse crowd that gathered in Amsterdam. Music lovers and industry professionals from every corner of the globe converged, creating an atmosphere of unity and shared passion, something we at NTES are here for and love to see!

ADE 2023 didn't just deliver an unforgettable experience for attendees; it also left a lasting impact on the electronic music community and the city of Amsterdam itself. ADE's international reach and diverse attendee base fostered cross-cultural collaborations and partnerships. Artists, labels, and industry professionals forged connections that will likely shape the future of electronic music.
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Final thoughts

This year, there were many conversations around safety in clubbing, mental health and leading positive change. My main purpose of this visit was to connect and be a part of the leading conversations on these subjects, and I really felt ADE delivered in these areas this year.
 
Inspiring workshops from the likes of SexMatters that engage their audience on how to create safer spaces in clubs for everyone.
 
Everyone, everywhere, all at once! It is such an amazing hub for industry professionals alike, making it a real hub for networking every day and into the night!

Amsterdam Dance Event 2023 was a testament to the enduring power of electronic music to bring people together. Through its dynamic lineup, thought-provoking conferences, and commitment to sustainability, ADE once again solidified its place as a cornerstone of the global electronic music calendar. As my trip came to an end on Friday, I was able to reflect back and see how fortunate we are to be a part of this extraordinary experience.