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Thursday, September 25, 2008

Music For A Cause

I agree that "music is the universal language". Regardless of geographical location, social status and personal convictions, music has a way of bridging gaps and bringing people together. One group is proving that this is true as they tour the world and share their music while spreading the message of unity in diversity.

Roads to You Tour History

The Roads to You Tour was founded by an Arab musician/composer named Zade Dirani. Zade was in the US when the September 11 attacks happened. He was supposed to give a house concert in Maine, which was postponed due to the events that transpired that day. This tragedy struck a desire in him to touch as many people as possible through his music. Zade later on decided to bring his house concert to many different venues. His efforts continued for three years, attracting supporters along the way.

It was in 2004 when Zade and a friend, while hiking, discussed the roles of musicians and how they can contribute on a global level. They pondered how musicians can merge leadership with music and spread the message of unity and peace. This became the foundation of The Roads to You Tour.

About The Roads to You Tour

The Roads to You Tour joins together 45 young musicians and leaders from different parts of the globe. These musicians perform together and tour different cities in the hopes of showing the world that despite our differences, we are all connected. Musicians are chosen not only for their musical ability but also for their leadership. The music they perform are composed by Zade and other international composers.

Their goal is to tour the world with a different group of musicians each year. Participants will have the opportunity to discuss issues with fellow musicians and in the process build friendships and gain a better understanding of each other's culture. The musicians who participated will become a part of the International Musicians Assembly. At the end of the tour, each musician will be asked to give presentations in their own communties, sharing what they have learned through their experience. Musicians will also be able to keep in touch with fellow musicians through email and newsletters even after the tour has ended.

Educational Workshops

Aside from connecting with other musicians and with the audience through music, members of the International Musicians Assembly may also give presentations and workshops for schools and local communities. These workshops lasts from 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the target audience.

Musicians Who Participated

Among the musicians who participated are:

Argentina: Ignacio Long - Bass

Canada: Andrew Beer - Violin

England: Ben Powell - Violin

France: Fabrizio Mazzetta - Cello

Greece: Anastassia Zachariadou - Flute

Israel: Uri Sharlin - Accordion

Korea: Daniel Hanul Lee-Violin

Lebanon: Joe Namy - Percussion

Palestine: Tareq Abboushi – Bouzouk

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