Background
Since the earliest days of human existence, music has been engrained into our very being. All humans are born with
an innate sensitivity to tone and rhythm. Music has been and is still being used as a vital force of self-expression,
communication, empowerment and healing in a wide range of activities: social, political, educational, religious, and
as a release from the daily tensions of life.
Today’s world is in dire need of creative solutions to the challenges of sustainable community development, trauma,
health and well being stemming from a host of factors such as poverty, disease, economic uncertainty and war.
Music for too long has been overlooked as a resource to effectively address these and other social and economic
issues.
Current research shows that music, as well as other forms of cultural expression, is an effective resource in the
healing process of individuals and groups who have been emotionally and physically afflicted. Music is an extremely
cost-effective and powerful language that all cultures relate to naturally. Music is also a direct and potent tool
in two major areas: sustainable urban and rural community building and the healing process of individuals and
communities. |
