The JMI Power of Music Podcast

Step into a journey that bridges music, culture, and society with Robert Manchin! In this episode of The Power of Music podcast, we welcome Robert, a sociologist, economist, musician, and cultural leader whose remarkable career connects the arts, policy, and social research. With decades of experience, he reflects on his early memories of JMI and the lessons they continue to inspire today. Robert...

Step into the world of conducting with Patrick Hahn, one of the most exciting young maestros on today’s international stage! In this episode of The Power of Music podcast, we welcome Patrick, a conductor whose career spans opera, symphonic repertoire, contemporary works, and even jazz. With his fresh approach and fearless versatility, Patrick is redefining what it means to lead an orchestra in the...

 Step into the inspiring story of music, resilience, and hope with Zeina Khoury! In this moving episode of The Power of Music podcast, we welcome Zeina, orchestra manager at the Edward Said National Conservatory of Music in Palestine where she oversees the Palestine National Orchestra, the Palestine Youth Orchestra, the ESNCM Orchestra, and the Jerusalem Children’s Orchestra. For over a decade, sh...

 Step into the future of youth-driven music with Gustaf Bäckström Elmelid! In this inspiring episode of The Power of Music podcast, we welcome Gustaf, the international coordinator for RMS in Sweden, Chair of the Imagine Music Experience, and director of Unga tankar om musik. With his passion for supporting the next generation of artists, Gustaf has become a leading force in reimagining what the g...

In this episode of The Power of Music podcast, we welcome Adela Valverde Monterreal, Cultural Manager, formerly at the Reset!.  Her journey back to her roots reignited a powerful connection to music and community—reminding her of the deep roots and collective strength that art can bring. With a focus on slowing down and creating space for artists, she shares why reflection and balance are essentia...

In this episode, we’re joined by Juan Sebastián Aguilar – composer, electric guitarist, and publishing specialist – whose career bridges the worlds of music creation and the business systems that sustain it. Originally from Colombia, Juan’s journey has taken him from jazz stages in Bogotá and Mexico to music industry leadership in Berlin, where he now heads Publishing at Paradise Worldwide. Alongs...

In this episode, we’re joined by Tiffany Jade Holland – a singer, songwriter, producer, creative mentor, and community builder from the UK. With roots in fashion, marketing, and event production, Tiffany’s journey into music didn’t start with sheet music or studio time—it began with a need for healing and self-expression. We dive into her transformative path, from discovering music later in life t...

Julien Beurms, classical pianist and Executive Director of Jeunesses Musicales Wallonie-Bruxelles, joins us for a conversation that explores the evolving landscape of classical music. With a strong background in both performance and cultural leadership, Julien shares insights into the 85-year legacy of the Jeunesses Musicales movement, the launch of the JMI Unity 80 Orchestra, and the importance o...

🎶We’re joined by Lucija Maroević — vocalist, cultural anthropologist, and a leading voice in the Ethno movement 🌍🎶 From Zagreb, Lucija has led vocal workshops, directed choirs, and shared traditional music at Ethno gatherings across Europe and beyond. In 2024, she became the Chair of JMI’s Ethno Committee, and is now helping shape the future of this global music community. In this episode, we t...

Our conversation explores the importance of open-earedness—the ability to listen without bias—and how it shapes both music education and our understanding of different cultures. We discuss the PERMA model of well-being and the role music plays in trauma healing, as well as the fascinating differences between playing and listening to music. We also dive into the impact of AI on the future of music...

In our conversation, we dive into the incredible role music plays in changing the lives of young people in Malawi, Mozambique and Zimbabwe as well as the challenges of achieving this mission.. Joe also shares his inspiring story and how Elton John’s red carpet somehow ended up in a recording studio in Sierra Leone!  We explore the art of creating win-win scenarios, navigating complex environments,...

We dive into the challenges and opportunities of organizing an event on the scale of WOMEX, bringing together over 2,600 music professionals from across 90 countries each year. Gaurav shares insights into the delicate balance of curating an inclusive and diverse program while also pushing boundaries and keeping the event fresh and forward-looking. We also discuss what it takes to preserve the magi...

🌟 The JM Jazz World Orchestra is more than just an ensemble—it’s a launchpad for emerging jazz talent. Bringing together gifted musicians from around the world, it offers them a taste of the real-life touring experience, high-level mentorship, and the chance to perform on some of Europe’s finest stages. Pilvi, now a lead trumpet player, credits JMJWO for expanding her horizons, proving how crucia...

🌟 She shares her journey—from being a musician to running an independent label in the UK to founding Un-Convention, a movement connecting grassroots musicians worldwide—led her to witness firsthand the power of music in shaping societies. From hip-hop in Palestine to electronic music on politically charged dance floors, she discusses how artists in these regions are reclaiming their voices and cr...

🌟 Growing up in a military family, constantly moving, Michael learned early how to meet people and adapt. His path took him from accordion to percussion, from psychology studies to becoming a sought-after session musician. He discusses how being truly present for artists—not just as a player but as someone who understands their creative needs—has defined his career. He shares insights on making m...

From her studies of Vaishnavite in Northeast India to her work with SOAS University, MARSM, and the Global Music Academy, Georgie has dedicated her career to fostering cultural understanding through music. Whether it's putting Arab musicians on the map or helping schools diversify their curriculums, her work is a testament to music's ability to build bridges across borders. 🌟 Tune in as we discus...

🌟 We dive into the prestigious International Jeunesses Musicales Competition, now in its 53rd edition, set to take place in Belgrade from March 21st to 30th, 2025. This year’s featured instrument is the harp, a choice that highlights its timeless beauty, versatility, and ability to captivate audiences. ✨ Nikola also shares his enriching experiences at the JM Communication Training in Cyprus and...

🌟Dave has transformed how young people engage with music through groundbreaking teaching methods like Music as a Second Language and the Modern Band approach, enabling students to play culturally relevant music from day one. Under his leadership, Music Will has reached over 1 million children across 44 states, empowering a new generation of music makers. 🎤 In the episode, Dave shares his persona...

🌍 Maarja's musical journey is a mesmerising fusion of folk, classical, and electronic influences. From her rigorous classical training to studying Hindustani music in India, she dives deep into Estonian folklore while exploring innovative electronic techniques. Her art creates a hypnotic soundscape that weaves together myths, stories, and sounds from both old and new worlds, earning her internati...

🌍 Raven’s incredible journey from a small reserve in northern Quebec to the international stage is a testament to his deep connection to his Anishinabe Algonquin and Mohawk heritage. He is dedicated to using music as a powerful tool for cultural resilience and growth. ✨ In our conversation, we explore the International Indigenous Music Summit, the largest event dedicated to uplifting Indigenous...

🌍 Join us as we delve into the rich cultural significance of clubs and raves, discovering how these vibrant spaces serve as more than just entertainment. Katharin shares her insights on the challenges of fostering diversity and inclusion in nightlife, discussing door policies that impact access and the essential strategies for creating safe, welcoming environments in the music industry. ✨ Tune i...

🌟 With deep experience across industry roles, from the UK Music Diversity Taskforce to the BRIT Voting Academy, Wozzy has been a driving force for inclusivity in music. She shares her journey, the story behind The Midi Music Company, how to balance passion with skill, and her insights into bridging music education with the business side of the industry. ✨ Get ready to be inspired by Wozzy’s unwa...

🎤 From launching the Falun Folk Music Festival in Sweden to building Ethno into a global movement spanning over 40 countries, Magnus has empowered countless musicians to connect through the shared language of music. Ethno camps create unforgettable memories and foster deep connections across cultures, with young artists coming together to learn, share, and preserve their unique musical heritages....

🔊In this inspiring episode of The Power of Music podcast, we welcome Laura Hassler, founder and director of Musicians Without Borders, a pioneering organization using music as a tool for social change. Laura shares her journey of building musical bridges in regions impacted by war, conflict, and displacement, bringing the healing power of music to divided communities. Through her work, Musicians...

🔊In this episode of JM International’s ‘The Power of Music’, we are joined by the inspiring Maria Krutsenko  & Anna Voloshynaof of The Sixsters, an all-girl punk-rock band formed by young musicians united by their passion for music. From their beginnings with themes of self-discovery and adolescence to their powerful anti-war songs, The Sixsters have continually evolved, especially in response to...