Since 1991 ECHO exists as a small group of closely related concert halls that worked in the same region. They were convinced that it was to the benefit of all partners to collaborate and exchange information on the programmes and artists they invited and the way they worked. This collaboration is based on a shared mission that combines the search for the highest artistic quality with a strong commitment for the social and intercultural role they play as leading cultural institution in the EU.ECHO members thus want, for the largest possible audience and for all cultures/regions- to explore, open up and preserve music repertoire- to stimulate and participate new (music) creation- to stimulate the best music practice at all levels.For this members are committed- to develop new artistic projects- to commission new work- to promote young artists- to organize the reference concerts- to exchange know how and information- to develop training programmes for the staff- to do common lobbyingTo realize this, ECHO decided to develop three projects:1) ECHO will function as an artistic platform, facilitating joint productions and developing new formats. This holds the development of a good information management, regular meetings with all artistic directors and the follow up of the projects.2) ECHO will continue and expand the Rising Stars programme. Expanding comprises different aspects: negotiation with music labels; better communication (including an up-to-date website), and above all expanding the number of Rising Stars, included artists from other European countries and offering the complete programme to non-ECHO members.3) ECHO will develop and expand its function as a training platform by organizing training sessions in five fields. Education, marketing, funding, technique, artistic. These sessions will be open for all staff of other concert halls. For every item an online forum will be opened that will function as a platform for exchange of information