Page 185 - Weiss, Jernej, ur./ed. 2026 Skladateljska društva nekoč in danes.../Composers’ Societies Past and Present...

Between Music and Politics: The Role of Composers in Musical Societies …
els of imperial/royal authority and municipal structures. The ruler
(emperor/king) authorises these institutions as part of the state’s
concern for the education of its subjects – aimed at training teach-
ers, educating broader social strata, and providing instruction
to underprivileged children. This model contributes to the shap-
ing of civic society by promoting both general and specialist (mu-
sical) education and reducing illiteracy.
3. Patronage model: Begins to take form in the 1820s. Encompasses
music institutes and, from the 1860s onwards, some music soci-
eties. Entails the patronage and material support of selected mu-
sic societies by influential individuals (e.g. patrons or “godfathers/
godmothers” of the institutions), which served to secure both
moral/artistic influence and a degree of oversight or control. Op-
erates on the level of the ban or bishop vis-à-vis associations/insti-
tutes; later also involves the nobility and the urban elite in relation
to music societies. This model supports the development of civic
society through collaboration among the aristocracy, high-rank-
ing clergy, and citizens.
4. Social (Socio-National) model: Emerges in the 1850s, with the es-
tablishment of music societies. Through control of statutes and
regulations, it contributes to the shaping of society (state/gov-
ernment – music society level). Includes singing societies, mixed
(singing-instrumental) societies, and instrumental groups such
as tamburitza and zither ensembles, as well as fire brigade bands.
Encourages desirable forms of sociability, both in society at large
and within multipurpose associations (e.g. the Trading Society
“Merkur”, volunteer fire brigades). It aims to strengthen national
spirit, exemplified by initiatives (not always realised) to establish
a national conservatory (ban – association, ban – king level). Pro-
motes national self-determination and enlightenment through
the authorisation of choral societies in urban and rural commu-
nities (state – town level), while also potentially suppressing such
efforts. Reflects a new social stratification – not simply aristocracy
vs citizens, but differentiation among citizens by profession, edu-
cation, and socio-economic status – and also signals an increas-
ing role of women in public life. This model is closely tied to the
strengthening of civic consciousness.

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