Related to SDGs
The Music Education Study Program of the Faculty of Languages and Arts, Universitas Negeri Semarang (UNNES), organized Simfoni UNNES 2026 at Prof. Wuryanto Auditorium, Semarang, on Sunday, June 21, 2026. The event was held to commemorate World Music Day while serving as a platform for collaboration and preservation of Indonesian musical heritage.
The program consisted of two main activities: a music workshop for high school students and a collaborative orchestra performance combining keroncong and dangdut music. During the workshop, participants engaged in hands-on musical practice, ensemble training, and discussions with lecturers and music practitioners.
The peak event featured more than 70 musicians, including lecturers, students, alumni, high school participants, and art partners. They performed together on one stage, presenting a unique orchestral arrangement blending keroncong and dangdut music.
The Vice Rector III of UNNES, Prof. Dr. Ngabiyanto, M.Si., emphasized the unifying power of music. “Music is a universal language that brings people together beyond differences. This World Music Day reminds us of our responsibility to explore and preserve regional musical heritage,” he stated.
He also highlighted the important role of academics in developing Indonesian music so it can gain global recognition and enhance national reputation.
Meanwhile, the Coordinator of the Music Education Study Program, Dr. Abdul Rachman, S.Pd., M.Pd., stressed the importance of innovation in preserving traditional music. “Keroncong and dangdut are part of Indonesia’s musical identity. By presenting them in orchestral formats and involving young generations, we aim to show that traditional music remains relevant and appealing,” he explained.
He added that collaboration among various stakeholders in the event is expected to strengthen the national music ecosystem and foster appreciation among younger generations. “This collaborative spirit is an investment for the future of Indonesian music,” he concluded.
Through Simfoni UNNES 2026, UNNES reaffirmed its commitment to advancing arts education, expanding collaboration, and preserving Indonesian musical heritage at both national and global levels.
This activity supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).
