Music is one of the most powerful tools that can be used to bring people together. It is a vehicle for expressing and sharing emotions, which begins to explain why it is so influential in uniting communities. Not only do musicians invest emotionally in their art but listeners then join this journey through listening to and engaging with the music created. The meaning behind a piece of music is far more universal than might be expected. I was interested to read of a recent study where participants were asked to listen to 14 second clips of songs from communities across the globe and to identify the purpose of the song (for example whether it is a love song, lullaby etc…). Despite the language and cultural barriers, the vast majority were able to correctly detect the emotional aspects of a piece of music.
This led me to consider the power of music in increasing tolerance within and between communities. It is a brilliant form of cross-cultural communication and helps to bridge the gaps between cultural heritages and different backgrounds. This summer I completed an internship with Project Rousseau, a non-profit organisation in New York City working to support a large number of newly arrived migrant families in NYC. My role was focused in the immigration legal services department of the organisation but also included a number of other tasks such as teaching children English and helping to set up a music scheme run by the charity. The programme will hopefully be able to offer free individual instrumental and/or vocal lessons for all students who would like to take up an instrument, as well as a choir open to everyone, regardless of prior musical experience or language. This is a significant example of music being used to draw people together from an incredibly diverse range of cultures and backgrounds. Uniting people to sing together in a choir, despite having so many apparent differences between them, is highly rewarding for all involved. The sense of comradery amongst the children engaging with music, often for the first time, is heart-warming and goes a long way to building a sense of community and making connections with other people. Rehearsing, practicing and performing with a group of people is phenomenally powerful in forging strong connections between those taking part.
One of the greatest aspects is that music can touch so many lives and be incredibly empowering even from the beginning stages. The benefits described do not require the highest level of commitment, practice and performance in order to be applicable. In fact, I have found in many cases that it is the musical groups and individuals you are surrounded by when you are initially learning who can become some of the strongest connections made through music. I have begun to realise just how much can be learnt from teaching music as well as how rewarding the process of passing on your skills and passions can be. Recently I gave a 13-year-old an introductory organ lesson; she had never played the piano or organ before and was a complete beginner but within half an hour was able to play a simple piece and try her hand at improvisation as well. Seeing her eyes light up and the joy it brought her, reminded me just how life-enhancing music can be for everyone, including young people.
Returning to the topic of improving tolerance and understanding through music - not only does group music-making introduce you to like-minded people but it also exposes you to others who may have different viewpoints, opinions and beliefs. The shared goal, with many people contributing to one outcome, helps to break down social and cultural barriers. The act of listening to music, especially in a concert setting can also create meaningful connections between people through a shared experience.
It is interesting to consider what can be learnt from creativity in the way Fighting Knife Crime London inspires young people in London. An important part of the charity’s work lies in finding ways in which young people can find inspiration in their lives. Taking part in extra-curricular activities such as music can open the door to so many other opportunities and provide exposure to a multitude of other new experiences. Creativity provides mental stimulation and often goes hand in hand with inspiration. Not only can inspiration lead to and encourage creativity but that creativity can inspire others. Music is a form of self-expression and plays a role in guiding peoples’ actions and aiding in the formation of identities. The healing effects of music are well evidenced, with music therapy often being used to improve attention and memory, as well as having a positive effect on those suffering from dementia or Alzheimer’s. A recent programme in Newark, NJ where schools were equipped with the resources to provide stronger musical education for students, found that 68% of teachers reported improved academic performance once music had been introduced in the school community. 94% of teachers saw better social-emotional skills from their students and attendance was also improved. Learning about the culture of others through music allowed students to become more connected with one another.
There is always more to learn when it comes to music, whether it be new repertoire, techniques and much more, which is why it is such an exciting activity to engage in. Music is a huge part of my life and I am forever grateful for the people I have met who have inspired, collaborated with and mentored me.
Sophia Membery
Young Musician
Sophia plays the piano, harp, violin, and viola, and recently passed her Associateship of the Royal College of Organists (ARCO), winning the Limpus, Frederick Shinn and Durrant prizes and the Lord St Audries Prize. A music scholar at St Paul’s Girls’ School, and St Michael and All Angels Church in Barnes, she has attended the Royal College of Music Junior Department for the last 8 years. She also studies singing, composition and conducting and performs at concerts in London.
