Do you love music? I know I do. One of the best things about it is that there are many different types to choose from! Rock, classical, pop, country… There is something for everyone to enjoy. Music brings people together, which is why I’m here today to talk to you about International Music Day!

In 1949, the International Music Council was established as an associate organisation of the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO). By connecting, encouraging, and providing access for all musicians, this organisation started and is now what we know as International Music Day.

The first International Music Day was celebrated on October 1, 1975, and we now celebrate it annually. This day was created to promote the art of music globally, as well as spread the message of peace and friendship, which is what UNESCO stands for. This day celebrates all musical talent and encourages people to join in while supporting others.

The 5 Goals:
To allow everyone to express themselves through music.
To give opportunities to children and adults to learn musical skills and languages.
To provide access to musical involvement for everyone.
To allow musical artists to develop, create, and communicate through media.
For musical artists to obtain recognition and fair compensation for their work.

So, how do you plan to celebrate International Music Day? If you don’t have any ideas, consider trying something from the list below!

Listen to Music:
Whether it’s jazz or hip hop, any kind of music works! Turn up the music in your car, or pop on some headphones while you work. Have some fun creating playlists, and find out about the amazing benefits listening to music can have!

Benefits of Music:
Music is good for your heart. Studies show that blood flows better when music is being played, and that music can lower blood pressure.
Music can help you with weight management! I didn’t know this, but playing soft music in the background (as well as dimming the lights) while eating can encourage people to slow down, and ultimately improve their eating habits.
Music can improve your mood. Listening to music has been known to make both humans and pets happier! Listening to music will release serotonin and endorphins in the bloodstream, which reduces anxiety and depression. It’ll help you feel more positive!
Music helps ease pain. Hopefully, you won’t need this, but music has shown to be helpful in healthcare situations. It helps patients decrease the severity of pain, particularly in palliative care or intensive care patients.

Attend a Musical Event:
Now more than ever is the time to go see that concert. Whether it's related to International Music Day or not, listening to live music can be loads of fun! Grab a seat at your high school’s band performance, go to a jazz bar, or get some tickets to see that one artist you’ve always wanted to hear in person! There are so many options, so grab a couple of friends and get out there! Personally, I would love to attend a Taylor Swift concert!

Learn to Make Music:
Have you been thinking about trying your shot at singing, or maybe learning to play the piano? Now is the time! International Music Day can provide you with just the right motivation to finally get started. Join the rest of the world in learning how to create your very own music. Write songs, create covers, or learn an instrument! Trust me, learning to express yourself through music will be a delight. Make sure to have fun with it!

Thank you for reading this article! I hope I’ve somewhat inspired you to do something musical after reading this chapter. I’ve got a singing gig coming up, and I’m afraid I have to go prepare for it. In whatever way you’re involved with music, I strongly encourage you to do some practising of your own, and if not, support your musical peers. Have fun, and goodbye!

Written by Daphne Clarke.
Edited by Marietta Oizys.
Proofread by Hazel Antler.