Our first project is launched!
In 1991, the U.S. made Northern Iraq a no-fly zone, ending Saddam’s chemical genocide. Prior to this, all of Iraq suffered terribly, however the Kurdish provinces were among the worst places in the entire world “—a howling emptiness of misery where I could catch, for the first time in my life, the actual scent of evil as a real force on earth.” (Christopher Hitchens Vanity Fair).}
With this in mind, our first project focused on the northern city of Erbil. Working with pre-existing schools and organisations, we linked up with locals to provide music workshops, music therapy, specialist instrumental lessons and cross-cultural conferences. Our donation of 100 instruments to a local school ensured that the work remained long-lasting and had a wide-reaching effect. The sound of music can now be heard in homes recovering from years of war and turmoil. Being on the ground enabled us to create networks which will be vital for future projects and community links
Meanwhile in Europe!
We were grateful to local children from French and UK schools who dedicated themselves to a sponsored practise. During this time, they learnt about Arabic music and wrote unique compositions using the rhythms and melodies of the Arabic world. Linked to the school syllabus we set about writing a lesson plan for use in more schools.
We hope in this way to encourage positive dialogue in a period of mistrust.
Harmony of Hope 