Why Make Music Day?

Completely different from a traditional music festival, Make Music Day is a one-day-a-year event, free and open to anyone wanting to participate. Some activities provide “instrumentation” for the participants, ranging from flowerpots and mallets, to harmonicas, kazoos, drumsticks, and buckets. Others, encourage players to bring their own instruments or simply their willing voices that deliver a unified message … that creating music is a precious element of daily living, linking communities around the world.

Music is extremely beneficial to society.  It helps bring people together and has the unique ability to represent a culture. It can also be used to relax and showcase the special moments in one’s life, a way to commemorate moments in time. Whether it’s at a wedding, funeral or any other special occasion, music is always present and can help make the moment even more memorable. Music is like a mirror that reflects the heartbeat of a culture.  Music has always been a big deal for us humans. Throughout history, music has served as a powerful medium for self-expression, offering individuals a resonant outlet to convey their feelings and experiences. Think about early humans chilling in caves – they didn’t have smartphones or TV, but they sure had music. They’d gather around fires, hum tunes, and play on basic instruments. This wasn’t just for fun; it was a way to bond and feel closer to each other. For many, music is a source of solace and relaxation, and in addition, it can even improve our workouts!     

On June 21, Make Music Day brings joy, inspires creativity, and transforms communities. It celebrates and promotes the natural music maker in all of us, regardless of ability. Make Music Day events turn sidewalks and streets into impromptu stages; a place for amateur musicians to share their passion and gain confidence and give established artists an opportunity to perform to a new audience.  It gives anyone who wants to perform or play an instrument or just get involved, the opportunity to “join the band”,  spread the message that we all embody- music, rhythm and the joy of what music provides in all its forms, is cherished by all- young and old, no matter the background, the upbringings, where you grew up or live now, or the intellectual level attained. Music is a universal language everyone can experience and enjoy. This transcendent quality of music allows it to communicate emotions, stories, and experiences without the constraint of words, forging connections between diverse cultures. Participate! Join us on Centre Street in Fernandina Beach this June 21 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.   Learn more:  https://makemusicday.org/nassaucounty. 

“The Arts bring us together; culture is what we share."

Richard Restiano, Nassau Council of Arts and Culture