October/November Spotlight: Music to Life
Founded by Noel Paul Stookey (of the 60’s folk trio Peter, Paul and Mary) and his daughter, Liz, Music to Life draws from a rich legacy of music for social change. What began as an exploration of the question “how can music more strategically address injustice?” has become a movement of musicians across the country going beyond benefit concerts to create measurable impact in their communities. We provide business skills training, mentorship, and seed funding for innovative artists of all genres who are creating music-driven community programs that directly address the issues of our time.
For example, the 10 artists in our Fall 2024 online Musician Changemaker Accelerator (MCA) Academy have just completed 6 weeks of interactive sessions on social entrepreneurship and creative business planning. They’re now beginning 4 months of coaching with resource development experts where they’ll get 1-on-1 support to help build their programs and secure partners for their ideas - ideas like:
- Hip-hop performances that advocate against gun violence
- Songwriting programs that connect children in low-income areas to green spaces
- Creative workshops that use musical storytelling to encourage action on energy access
As a proud member of GIA for 3 years, we’re excited to share the impact we’ve witnessed through investing in artists as social entrepreneurs. Recently, we worked with Beny Esguerra, (award-winning producer and graduate of our Fall 2023 MCA Academy), helping him further develop his program including stronger evaluative methods and negotiating a contract with the City of Toronto to fund the 5th year of his community project. Wheel It Studios provides mobile access to recording equipment and mentorship for low income young artists across high-density, gang-driven neighborhoods in Toronto, resulting in violence reduction, increased academic engagement and peaceful collaboration through music making.
Instagram: @musictolife_org
Facebook: MusictoLifeOrg
LinkedIn: musictolifeorg
You can learn more about Music to Life on the photo credits page.