Innovation systems in motion: an early music case

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to provide an in‐depth understanding of the innovation system and the learning processes involved in a very specific cultural field: the production of early music.

Design/methodology/approach A single case study of the generic value chain in the music production industry describes and analyses the process and the actors involved in editing a new early music collection resulting from the collaboration between a record company and a public research organization.

Findings There is a need for new knowledge in the various stages of performance and publication of a new recording. The early music sector is a knowledge‐intensive, science‐driven sector that can be characterized as a system because the interactions among actors substantially influence final products.

Research limitations/implications The single case study represents a specific sector within the music industry. However, its conclusions can be applied to other fields in the cultural heritage sector.