CHRISTIAAN’S MUSICAL MISSION: Singing for Change. How Music Became My Tool for Advocacy

Welcome to ‘Singing for Change,’ my journey of discovering the transformative power of music as a tool for advocacy. Through my experiences, I’ve learned that singing can be more than just a hobby or form of expression – it can be a catalyst for change. I’ve had the privilege of advocating in three unique ways: standing alongside individuals against oppressive systems, challenging self-interest within singing groups, and representing the voice of music against societal injustices. In this blog, I’ll share stories, lessons, and reflections on how music has become my instrument for creating positive impact. Join me as I explore the intersections of song, social justice, and personal growth.

Persistence in the Face of Power: My Journey with the Community Choir

As a justice advocate, I learned a valuable lesson about persistence and endurance when I joined the board of a disability choir. Initially, I was drawn to the choir’s honorable mission and passionate people. However, over time, I witnessed a shift in leadership and values. Political media advisors took control, exploiting the choir’s reputation for their own gain. I was disheartened by the poor leadership and non-evidenced methods employed.

Despite the challenges, I maintained my power and influence by focusing on my strengths: my singing talent and compassion for the group. I ignored political games and instead chose to empower individuals with deficiencies, fostering a sense of community among members. I found allies, but they were few. Nevertheless, I persisted, and my singing improved significantly, earning the respect of music teachers who supported me through lessons, technique, and theory.

My commitment to singing for the community, rather than personal gain, resonated with the teachers and eventually won over the hearts of the good people. I realized that strong singing can be a powerful tool for change, allowing me to control the narrative and steer the choir towards a positive path. This experience taught me the value of persistence and endurance in the face of adversity, and I continue to apply these lessons in my advocacy work.

Finding My Voice: How Music Helped Me Discover My Advocacy Journey

Harmony and Discord: Challenging Self-Interest in Singing Groups

Singing Against the System: Using Music to Challenge Oppressive Boards

The Power of Protest Songs: How Music Can Fuel Social Movements

From Solo to Chorus: Building Community Through Music and Advocacy

Pitching a New Perspective: Using Music to Shift Societal Narratives

Amplifying Marginalized Voices: Music as a Tool for Inclusion

Rhythm and Resistance: How Music Can Fuel Personal and Collective Resilience

Breaking Down Barriers: Using Music to Bridge Cultural and Social Divides

Melodies for Change: How Songwriting Became My Form of Activism

The Intersection of Music and Activism: Lessons from My Journey

Singing for Justice: How Music Can Humanize Social Issues

Key Takeaways:

• Persistence and endurance are essential in the face of power and politics.
• Focus on your strengths and passions to maintain influence.
• Artistic expression, like singing, can be a powerful tool for justice and advocacy.
• Authenticity and commitment to a greater good can earn respect and support.
• Empower others and foster community to create positive change.