Territorial development and music

between mega events and local and regional musical events in Mato Grosso do Sul

Abstract

This article aims to analyze the relationships between sound circuits and local development, especially through musical events. We recognize two distinct logics in the organization of these events: that of mega events, notably linked to the globalized cultural industry, and that of local and regional events, which, in many cases, present a greater diversity of musical expressions and stronger ties to regional identities. To this end, we focus on the sound circuits of original music from Mato Grosso do Sul and musical events held in this state, with a particular emphasis on those taking place in the city of Dourados. Our analysis is based on the case study of two musical events: one occurring within the context of ExpoAgro, aligned with the logic of mega events such as Rock in Rio and Lollapalooza; and Festop (Festival of All Peoples), a local event that brings together artists from diverse musical genres across the state. We outline two points of contact between these events and territorial development: the circuits of the urban economy that each mobilizes in the spaces where they take place—where mega events primarily activate upper circuits, while local and regional events engage lower circuits—and the disputes within the psychosphere, that is, the debates over discourses, imaginaries, identities, and aesthetics that each of these events promotes.