I’ve just stumbled upon an absolutely wonderful website for a movement called “Playing for Change”. The idea of the movement is simple, yet powerful.
“Playing for Change is a multimedia movement created to inspire, connect, and bring peace to the world through music. The idea for this project arose from a common belief that music has the power to break down boundaries and overcome distances between people. No matter whether people come from different geographic, political, economic, spiritual or ideological backgrounds, music has the universal power to transcend and unite us as one human race. And with this truth firmly fixed in our minds, we set out to share it with the world.”
As I watched their videos it reminded me how powerful the arts can be. One of the musicians speaks about how music can be a time for meditation and peace, I think it is exactly the same with dance. In today’s world it is easy to become lost in frivolous and unnecessary things, but it truly is time for change. I have been doing some studying of the teachings by Eckhart Tolle, of Buddhism, and at the moment I’m reading a book by the current Dalai Lama. I have finally felt that peace has entered my life and every moment is truly a gift. Dance is my form of meditation and through it I have found my own peace. The world around us seems to be filled with things that are falling apart, everything from our economy to the planet we live on. These outer problems are only a reflection of the inner conflicts so many of us feel day to day, but there is a way to find enlightenment and peace. During these times we must not forget how extremely powerful the arts can be to the human race. Dance, music, and many other art forms can bring a stillness and peace where we would least expect it. We can’t underestimate the importance and power of the arts at anytime, but especially not during the hard times. The way this movement is using music is a reminder that through art we all have the power to unite and spread peace.
http://www.playingforchange.com/
Patrick Howe
“Can Art Change the World?” is a fabulous question. I too am a fan of Tolle and an artist (painter). I think true art has a profound effect on the artist and audience. Artistic expression takes one deeper into the creative process as it emerges in the Now.
Thanks,
Patrick
May 06, 2009 @ 16:14
madison
Thanks for the comment Patrick, it is always wonderful to hear people’s feedback.
May 06, 2009 @ 18:29
bill
Interesting to read from a dance perspective. My mother is a painter and the most fulfilling part of her art is the act of painting. I know she wants her finished pieces to express her vision, but the process of expressing is even more important to her. She’s told me that that’s how she grows as a person.
May 06, 2009 @ 18:39