Healing Borders: Music for Peace with Laura Hassler

10/30/24 • 53 min

🔊In this inspiring episode of The Power of Music podcast, we welcome Laura Hassler, founder and director of Musicians Without Borders, a pioneering organization using music as a tool for social change. Laura shares her journey of building musical bridges in regions impacted by war, conflict, and displacement, bringing the healing power of music to divided communities. Through her work, Musicians Without Borders has transformed countless lives, proving that a single melody can foster understanding and resilience.

Beyond her organization’s work, Laura reflects on her experiences with nonviolent movements, including her advocacy with the Extinction Rebellion. She reveals how the universal language of music supports peacebuilding and connects people across cultures and causes. Tune in as we discuss how singing songs from a homeland or sharing familiar tunes can transcend barriers and create lasting connections. Don’t miss this episode on the profound impact of music in bridging divides and – of course – on the power of music.
Laura Hassler socials: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-hassler-4bb498b?originalSubdomain=nl
i️ JMI is a global network of NGOs that empowers young people through music across all boundaries. For more info go to jmi.net or check out all the amazing opportunities for musicians on Mubazar.

Previous Episode

Rocking Resilience with Maria Krutsenko & Anna Voloshynaof of The Sixsters

🔊In this episode of JM International’s ‘The Power of Music’, we are joined by the inspiring Maria Krutsenko & Anna Voloshynaof of The Sixsters, an all-girl punk-rock band formed by young musicians united by their passion for music. From their beginnings with themes of self-discovery and adolescence to their powerful anti-war songs, The Sixsters have continually evolved, especially in response to the challenging situation in Ukraine.

We'll explore their journey, including the formation of the band, the impact of the war on their music, and the incredible story of how they reunited after a time apart to create a song in just ten minutes. The band shares their experiences of dealing with changing members, the support they received after fleeing Ukraine, and their dream of participating in Eurovision representing Germany. We'll also discuss the importance of staying true to oneself in all situations and the unique dynamics of being a band of five despite their name and – of course – the power of music.

i️ JMI is a global network of NGOs that empowers young people through music across all boundaries. For more info go to jmi.net or check out all the amazing opportunities for musicians on Mubazar.

Next Episode

Folk Music's Magic: Magnus Bäckström and the Ethno Movement

🎤 From launching the Falun Folk Music Festival in Sweden to building Ethno into a global movement spanning over 40 countries, Magnus has empowered countless musicians to connect through the shared language of music. Ethno camps create unforgettable memories and foster deep connections across cultures, with young artists coming together to learn, share, and preserve their unique musical heritages.

✨ Join us as Magnus takes us back to Ethno’s beginnings and shares stories from his journey. He reflects on the profound “feeling” of folk music and the dedication of musicians who sometimes travel across the globe to be a part of the Ethno experience. Discover how music can become a bridge, creating “magic” that transcends borders and unites us all

i️ JMI is a global network of NGOs that empowers young people through music across all boundaries. For more info go to jmi.net or check out all the amazing opportunities for musicians on Mubazar.