"À Mesa" is an artistic research project created with the aim of connecting contemporary and experimental music to local communities in Portugal. Since 2015, I have been working with musicians, artists, and residents to develop new forms of participation and cultural exchange. The project takes place in rural areas, where, in partnership with local organizations, we organize interdisciplinary residencies aimed at making art more accessible. The project’s objectives are to strengthen the bonds between artists and communities, present contemporary music in a way that is more relevant and closer to local reality, and enhance the connections between artists and communities by bringing artistic creation into a context that is meaningful for both. This dialogue and collaborative work have a real impact in both directions: for the artists, it is an opportunity for growth and to rethink their practices; for the community, it is a way to see themselves reflected in contemporary art that strives to be more significant for the viewer.