The symbiotic relationship between music and humanity is well-documented.
In ancient Greece, music and its instruments were attributed to divine origin; in India, the ohm – somewhere between a C and C-sharp – marks the beginning of the universe; in concert halls the world over, the musician – from a speaker-flanked altar – inspires the elation of a fervorous audience.
The profound impression that music leaves upon us cannot be understated, and it’s to this emotional impact that Musicians Making A Difference (MMAD) stands in testament.
MMAD, now nearing its twentieth year, strives to improve the mental well-being of young people by way of music, using the medium to inspire disadvantaged youth to make positive choices in the life ahead.
The Australian charity conducts various workshops in schools and juvenile detention centres, and is prolific in its disaster response work.
“Music has the power to heal, inspire, and connect us all” says MMAD co-founder Dominic Brook, a claim made self-evident.
Today, Friday October 20, marks this year’s MMAD Day. The day arrives with the hashtag #ThisSongIsForYou, which encourages all aware to dedicate a song to someone else.
An array of Aussie musicians are taking part in this celebration of music’s capacity for connection.
As yet, such acts as Daniel Middleton, Conrad Sewell, Ziggy Ramo, Bliss n Eso, Avneeesha, and Mung Mung have dedicated a song – whether one of their own or another artist’s – to one or a few people for the occasion.
Participation in MMAD Day is just as simple as it seems. All that’s required is a song, a sentiment, and a someone.
An internet connection doesn’t hurt, either. “On MMAD Day, we’re inviting everyone to use the power of music to make a difference in the life of someone they care about.”
Today, share the music and people that mean the most with the hashtag #ThisSongIsForYou for MMAD Day 2023 and tag @mmadaustralia.
“To young Australians, don’t suffer in silence. It’s so natural to feel like you don’t want to burden people, or that people won’t understand, but everyone is going through something. It’s always so much easier when you are vocal and ask for help because people are amazing and passionate and caring. If you ask for help the right person will reveal themselves and definitely support you through whatever you’re going through.” Ziggy Ramo
For more information about MMAD or MMAD Day, visit mmad.org.au
You can also make a donation to support MMAD.
If you need emergency support, please contact 000.
Words By Harrison Jones
