Playing for Change

I love unexpected surprises. 

Yesterday morning, a friend posted on Facebook that she had two tickets to see a group called Playing for Change at the local community theater. Up for an adventure, J and I responded and two hours later, we were sitting in the audience.

Playing for Change was started by two partners traveling the world in search of uniting the human race through music. Their hope is that music will bring people together, despite the color of their skin, cultural upbringing, or social status.

Throughout their travels around the world, Playing for Change recorded various musicians singing the same song. With the benefit of modern recording technology, the collaboration of these diverse people became a worldwide phenomenon. One of their most famous collaborations is Stand by Me. It has received over 40 million You Tube hits to date.

Playing for Change - Stand by Me

Playing for Change's journey included interviewing musicians and learning their inspiring stories; tales of how music helped them to persevere through various racial and social hardships. One of the ensemble's most notorious members is Grandpa Elliot "Grandpa." Over 70, Grandpa has played on the streets of New Orleans since he was six years old. Grandpa's harmonica music and deep soothing voice will lift up your soul.

Grandpa Elliot - Sugar Sweet

The Playing the Change tour's success laid way for the Playing for Change Foundation to be established. The non-profit is dedicated to promoting positive cultural change through music. Propelled by the belief that all children should have the right to learn music, the foundation has built three music schools and started seven music programs worldwide. 

We had an amazing time yesterday at Playing for Change's concert. After listening to their uplifting music and inspiring stories (as well as dancing in the aisles,) we are so happy we went. It is quite remarkable how a group of international musicians who used to play for change, are now playing to change the world. 

And who knows...

maybe world peace is possible through unifying the races through music.