Factors that contribute to the success of regularly occurring open-air music festivals from an organizational perspective

Diplomarbeit die am 03.04.2000 erfolgreich an einer Fachhochschule in Deutschland im Fachbereich Wirtschaftswissenschaften eingereicht wurde. Abstract: Music celebrations social gatherings and festivals have always been part of the lives of human beings which is why the historical beginning of music festivals cannot be exactly stated. The lack of historical accuracy is proof that a need for music and social happenings has always existed among people. Moreover music's influence on peoples' cultures and governments has shown to be of great importance regarding the development of our international society. By looking at the last century alone one can find many examples supporting this statement. For example Rock & Roll in the 50-s demonstrated how a whole generation could be inspired by music which resulted in cultural revolution and social change. Open-air music festivals are great promoters of new music genres and especially of the genres' performers. Festivals have the potential to make young people aware of current issues that affect the future of our society. This potential has been recognised by the most successful festival in Europe- the Glastonbury Festival- that is known world wide. Some of the aspects that made this festival so successful are examined in this paper. From the author's point of view factors contributing to the success of music festivals from an organisational perspective are a variety of interacting complex variables and conditions coming either from the various environments surrounding a festival supporting or limiting it or from the festival driving components and the festival itself. This paper will look at the operational side of the festival's driving components that are derived from the festival organiser's skills and actions taking into consideration the process-oriented nature of special events. Success and regularly occurring open-air music festivals are defined in the next chapter. All following chap...