WP 127 | 23 Practices and history of “Co- programming” and “Co-design” in Italy: the production of culture and music education in Trentino between public and private non-profits

The paper addresses the issue of the possible coordination mechanism that can be used for cultural production, and in particular for musical culture. This reflection is situated within the specific institutional innovations introduced in Italy with the reform of the Third Sector. The authors focus on the importance of “shared administration” and the particular management of cultural policy set by Trentino, a province located in northern Italy. The approach to the production of music culture, developed before the Third Sector reform, places a strong emphasis on the idea of “sharing” the cultural project within the communities of reference, particularly through the interaction between public administration and private nonprofit organizations. The approach taken was undoubtedly innovative compared to the dominant approach, which was focused, in contrast, on public calls for proposals or the production of services managed entirely by public authorities. This approach was developed along three levels of systemic governance: strategic, intermediate coordination and operational. In conclusion, the existence of a polycentric system of cultural production is evident. However, there is a need for it to avoid becoming trapped in a static disequilibrium. On the contrary, it is desirable for it to recognize change, and to support and promote a culture of cooperation among schools and across institutional levels.

JEL Codes

H4; I2; L3; Z1