SONGS FOR CHANGE INTO THE FUTURE
The "Songs for Change into the Future" online multiplier event, organized by P1 (GER), was a key element of the dissemination strategy and actions under the SfC project. It was held on March 19, 2024, gathering more than 60 youth workers, educators, organizations, and music enthusiasts from Europe all potential users to showcase the four project results and lessons learned from the Songs for Change (SfC) project.
The event was hosted via the online platform ZOOM and was specifically designed for an online format with tools such as breakout rooms, padlet and other non-formal music-based and participatory activities to engage the audience.
The event was led by P1 (GER) with contributions from the partner network and insights from the participating young people.Thus, the agenda seamlessly blended informative presentations on project goals, methodologies, and best practices with immersive, participatory sessions. Attendees were able to witness the meaningful performances of Songs for Change compositions, live music demonstrations, and even took part in co-creating a song together, fostering a genuine sense of collective creativity.
Central to the event, was the showcasing of the learning material (project results), which introduced the Songs for Change Toolkit, an interactive resource with exercises on EU values, and the Song Creation Series, which includes webinars and a handbook on songwriting and music collaboration. Participants also learned about music video production through tutorials and explored the Songs for Change Broadcast, which includes an advocacy guide and a radio podcast series for youth workers.
Crucially, the event encouraged participants to leverage their networks and platforms—be it through newsletters, social media, or future events—to amplify the project's impact across diverse contexts and institutions. Discussions were forward-thinking, strategizing on optimal methods to disseminate and apply project outcomes, thus maximizing its influence and extending its reach to broader audiences.
To ensure accessibility beyond the live event, comprehensive recordings were made available on YouTube, reaffirming our commitment to broadening access to invaluable project insights.
The event embodied the spirit of collaborative innovation and knowledge sharing and emphasised the inclusive nature of music by offering an online format around the transformative power of music when it comes to advancing EU values and promoting broad societal change.
Local Multiplier Events
FACHVERANSTALTUNG: SFC INTO THE FUTURE, NONFORMAL EDUCATION AND MUSIC
On May 7th, 2024, Berlin hosted a transformative event titled "Songs for Change into the Future," focused on the powerful intersection between music and social change. This event, part of the Erasmus+ project Songs for Change (SfC), introduced the innovative LCPA (Learn, Create, Produce, Advocate) method to a diverse audience. The German Multiplier Event, organized by YEPP EUROPE, aimed to disseminate the project's results (Songs for Change Toolkit (PR1), Song creation Series (PR2), Song production tutorials (PR3), Songs for Change Broadcast (PR4)) and share experiences.
The event, held at 4:00 PM, attracted a target group that included representatives of local NGOs and foundations, schools, vocational training institutions, teacher training institutions, higher education institutions, and young people involved in youth work, music, and non-formal education. Invitations were shared among YEPP EUROPE's local networks and potential users of the project's results, as well as promoters and disseminators. Associated partners of the Coordinator (GER), such as kein Abseits! e.V., die Weiße Rose Berlin, etc. were engaged as multipliers.
The event began with live music from a Berlin-based musician and activist, whose original songs advocating for social and environmental justice set an inspiring tone. Her performance captivated the audience, highlighting the powerful role of music in advocacy. Following the musical performance, attendees were welcomed and introduced to YEPP EUROPE and the Songs for Change project, setting the stage for the subsequent presentations and interactive sessions.
Marion Haak-Schulenburg, an experienced community musician and trainer, delivered a lecture titled “Neuer Blick auf Altbekanntes: Wie uns das Wissen um die Regulation des Nervensystems bei Alltagssituationen in Musikworkshops helfen kann.” She provided valuable insights into applying knowledge of nervous system regulation in music workshops, helping attendees understand how to respond more sensitively and effectively in these settings. The next segment focused on the project results, highlighting the learnings and impact on young participants and participating organizations. This presentation provided a comprehensive overview of the achievements and future potential of the Songs for Change project.
During the break, attendees had the opportunity to engage more deeply with the project through interactive corners. These included a wall of podcasts and music video showcases, allowing participants to explore the project's content and outcomes in a more hands-on manner. The Berlin network then engaged in discussions about further disseminating and using the videos to strengthen awareness of young people's roles in society. The focus was on empowering everyone to actively participate and create a multiplication effect on a long-term scale. During this practical and participatory event, participants were guided through the LCPA learning method, learning from insights and best practice examples. They agreed on future cooperation and the strength of the network to further disseminate and promote results among their respective networks (NGOs, foundations, youth centers, schools, etc.).
Participants were given access to practical tools and resources designed to help them convey EU values and promote societal change through music in the form of the Project results. USB-sticks with the four PR’s were given out to participants in a digital form to disseminate the results further. Insights into the Songs for Change project and the LCPA method provided attendees with valuable knowledge and strategies for future initiatives. The event attracted a diverse group of attendees, including music educators, social workers, artists, and students. This diversity facilitated networking and collaboration, encouraging the exchange of ideas and the formation of new partnerships focused on using music for social change.
"Songs for Change into the Future" left a lasting impact on all who attended. The event successfully demonstrated the transformative power of music in driving social change. Attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose and inspiration, equipped with new skills and resources to apply in their own work. In summary, "Songs for Change into the Future" was a dynamic and impactful event that highlighted the synergy between music and social change. By exploring the Erasmus+ project Songs for Change and the LCPA method, participants gained valuable insights and practical tools to advocate for social and environmental justice through music. The event's success underscored the importance of music as a catalyst for societal change and encouraged ongoing collaboration among attendees.
YEPP ITALIA
The Italian Multiplier Event was organized by P2 (IT) with a large support by young Songs for Change” participants on 11th May 2024. In collaboration with the organization Circolo Vita Nova at "i chiostri di santa Caterina" in Finalborgo, YEPP Italia participated in the event: “Il mondo che vorrei… E’ già qui” (the world I would like...... is already here) and used this opportunity to showcase the Songs for Change project by merging with their multiplier event.
The event involved around 60 visitors, including onlookers, representatives of other associations, and representatives of institutions, including 25 people from the education or social outreach sectors. Representatives from various sectors, including local government (Comune di Finale), community development associations (Centro Storico del Finale, Vita Nova Finale APS, Sjamo, Migrantes, Unitre), educational institutions (DAM Academy), sports organizations (ASD Sanfilippo Neri YEPP Albenga football team, A.S.D Budo Martial Fit), financial institutions (Banca Etica), local enterprises (Elementerre, Ènostra), informal groups focused on sustainability (Vado per semi, Movimento per la decrescita felice) and associated partners as well as other YEPP Local Sites and young people. All organisations are potential users of the created Project Results as well as promoters and disseminators to potential users such as young people, peer-youth organisations, schools as well as educational programs in the field of music, sustainability, and cultural and social action. YEPP Italia's participation facilitated valuable networking opportunities and showcased their capabilities as a catalyst for community engagement and cultural exchange through music.
With the objective to disseminate the project results and Project Results within the Italian YEPP network, the event included a mixture of presentations and experience reports. Involving various trainers and young participants as speakers, the event gave the audience the possibility to discuss their first-hand experience and recommendations for future action on artwork, social entrepreneurship and advocacy projects.
Key Topics of the agenda were the introduction and welcoming by YEPP Italia and the municipality, including the framework of Erasmus +. Followed by a detailed description of the chronology of the programme, putting particular emphasis on the moments of international mobility, recounting the training of trainers, the mobility event and the partners meeting as the high points of the experience for their ability to promote the encounter between people of different nationalities. The participants from the event were reminded/ familiarised with the core values of the European Union, which are the pillars of the SfC project. Afterwards, the young people participating in the project shared their own experiences in the local workshops and added their personal message about Songs for Change. In addition, insights from the perspective of young people were shared about their participation in the two international mobility meetings, how these opportunities opened their minds by meeting people from other cultures and how music was also produced on these occasions.
The second part of the multiplier event was dedicated to the presentation of the SongforChange.eu website and Project Results (PR1: Songs for Change Toolkit; PR2: Song Creation Series; PR3: Video Tutorial Production and PR4: Songs for Change Broadcast) as tools to replicate the experience.
The event served to enhance YEPP's visibility and credibility as a promoter of active citizenship and community development. It laid the groundwork for potential future collaborations with other organizations interested in leveraging music as an educational and social tool.
Network For Children's Rights Greece
The Multiplier event titled "Songs for Change into the Future" was organized by P4 (GR) in Athens on March 27, 2024. This event played a crucial role in the dissemination strategy of the Erasmus+ "Songs for Change" program. The primary goal was to present the lessons learned and Project Results to key stakeholders, potential users, and multipliers. The event facilitated discussions on how initiatives like Songs for Change can promote awareness and foster a proactive attitude towards EU values among young people, institutions, community stakeholders, and policymakers at local and international levels. The event targeted key stakeholders and partners of P4 (GR), who work closely with the local host. These included members of various networks and coalitions in Greece, such as NGOs focusing on Human/Children’s Rights and other NGOs that could benefit from the program and assist in further dissemination at the national level. Notable organizations involved were Greek Council for Refugees, Musikarama, International Organisation for Migration, Respect for Greece, Interdisciplinary Assessment, Counseling & Support Centers (KE.D.A.S.Y), Action Synergy, SOS Villages). Teachers and professors (from primary and secondary schools) and students were also invited to broaden the reach and impact of the event.
During the event, participants revisited their musical journey, presenting the project's methodology, songs, and podcast. A highlight of the event was the introduction of a new song composed by new participants, designed to "Break the Myths" by combining myths from different countries into a multilingual rap song. This song, created with input from children, will soon be made available. The event was organized in collaboration with two young project participants. The presentation included a music video, excerpts from the podcast discussing the connection between values and music, and a video from Utrecht. The young participants also detailed their workshop experiences, outlining the processes and final products of their musical creations. In addition, two podcast guests attended the event and shared their insights and experiences to the audience.
Following discussions centered on how these values are challenged in society and local communities and explored strategies to promote and actively implement them. Participants also examined ways to optimize and adapt the produced material for new contexts, ensuring it could reach a wider audience. Additionally, the event addressed how to influence policies at local, regional, and international levels, encouraging attendees to act as multipliers and advocates for the program.
The "Songs for Change into the Future" multiplier event in Greece successfully combined reflection on past achievements with innovative new contributions. It fostered a collaborative and forward-looking atmosphere, engaging participants in meaningful discussions and interactive activities. The event effectively disseminated the project's results and best practices while setting the stage for future advocacy and implementation of EU Values.
Het Wilde Westen, Netherlands
The multiplier event “Songs for Change into the Future” on 28.03.24 was held in Utrecht to further disseminate the Project Results produced during the project. This was achieved in a very interactive and audience-engaging manner. The target group of the event consisted of representatives of organisations in the field of youth work, music and arts, human rights, as well as young people. These organisations were potential users of the created Project Results and served as promoters and disseminators to potential users such as young people, peer-youth organisations and schools. The objectives of the event were to present the Project Results, engage the audience, and enable and motivate them to promote and disseminate these results.
During the event, participants were guided through the LCPA method in a practical and participatory manner. They learned about EU values (L), created short song lyrics (C), produced musical sounds to accompany their lyrics (P), and advocated for EU values by presenting their creations to the audience (A). In addition to these activities, the event featured "Songs for Change," showcasing video clips from various countries within the Consortium. This multimedia approach aimed to inspire both participants and the audience, encouraging them to embrace EU values and take action.
The event also served as a platform for young project participants to share their personal experiences and insights gained from their involvement. Partners and stakeholders engaged deeply by posing questions to better understand the impact of the project and its outcomes.
The concluding segment of the event was marked by a collaborative music-making session, where participants came together to create music collectively. This activity not only demonstrated teamwork and creativity but also provided a platform for participants to showcase their newfound skills and express pride in their achievements.
Throughout the event, there was evident enthusiasm and active participation from both the participants and partners. The collaborative nature of the music-making session underscored the event's success in fostering engagement and highlighting the tangible outcomes of the LCPA method in practice. Socializing over drinks provided a relaxed atmosphere for networking and further discussion, enhancing the overall experience of the event.
Despite challenges in outreach, such as difficulty reaching secondary schools, the event generated interest, with two follow-up emails received from potential collaborators. Next steps involve meeting with the interested parties, including a secondary school teacher, to explore further collaboration opportunities and improve outreach strategies for future initiatives. Overall, the event was warmly received, fostering a sense of community and celebration among participants and partners alike.
Young Educators, Portugal
The multiplier event in Lisbon on the 29th April 2024, organised by P6 (PT), was an important part of the Portuguese dissemination strategy for the Songs for Change project. The event aimed to present the project results and best practices in an informative and engaging manner, encouraging attendees to become promoters and multipliers of the project outcomes.
P6 (PT), a well-connected organisation in Lisbon and throughout Portugal, attracted a diverse audience to the event. Attendees included young people, partners, and associated partners from fields such as music, arts, culture, youth work, policy work, and both non-formal and formal education. These organisations were potential users and promoters of the project results, disseminating them to young people, youth workers, peer-youth organisations, schools, and educational programs focused on music, inclusion, and human rights. The event was designed to be interactive and engaging to the guests. It began with an ice-breaking activity where participants introduced themselves, the organisations they represented, and their interest in the Songs for Change project. This smoothly transitioned into an introduction to the project, including its consortium of partners, aims, objectives, pillars, and the LCPA method of learning.
Following this introduction, the project results were presented: PR1: Songs for Change Toolkit; PR2: Song Creation Series; PR3: Video Tutorial Production; PR4: Songs for Change Broadcast. Each result was introduced, explained, and demonstrated, showing how participants could use the resources and materials developed over the project's two-year span in their daily work. Participants showed keen interest in the toolkit for its non-formal education exercises, recognizing their adaptability for specific contexts and their usefulness for engaging young people. PR3's video tutorial tips were appreciated for their applicability across various organisational contexts, demonstrating the project's versatility and the unifying power of music.
The event included discussions on integrating the project's learnings into participants' work. Participants valued these insights and expressed appreciation for learning about the project's achievements. Major milestones of the project were presented, such as the Training of Trainers in Herlany, Slovakia, local workshops, the Youth Exchange in Utrecht, The Netherlands, the Online Music Festival, and podcasts. These moments were illustrated with songs created during the events, such as "Stones" from Herlany and the music video "How much does your freedom cost?" initiated in Utrecht. Video testimonies from participants were shared, along with in-person insights from the young participants. The opinions were overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the significant personal growth and development fostered by the project.
Participants enjoyed these presentations, appreciating the project's progress and outcomes. The project's social media platforms and website were showcased, enabling participants to access and use the materials and resources. Overall, the event was well-received, with participants recognizing the project's valuable contributions. The local guests were encouraged to use their networks and channels to expand the project's reach and impact, ensuring that the Songs for Change project continued to inspire and influence long after the event concluded.
Out of the Box, Belgium
The Belgian multiplier event, hosted by Out of The Box International (P5), titled "Songs for Change into the Future," took place on March 8, 2024, in Brussels. The event was a central moment aimed at engaging European stakeholders, including Members of the European Parliament, European Commission representatives, and various umbrella associations. Its primary goal was to raise awareness about EU values and highlight the project's impactful results beyond Brussels.
The event started with a warm welcome and introduction, setting the stage for an insightful overview of the Songs for Change project objectives and the innovative LCPA learning method. Attendees were then treated to presentations showcasing the tangible outcomes of the project: the Songs for Change TOOLKIT, the Song Creation SERIES, Video Clip Production TUTORIALS, and the Songs for Change BROADCAST. These presentations were complemented by a compelling showcase of songs and video clips produced during the project, demonstrating the power of music in promoting ideas of positive change.
Central to the event was an interactive discussion and Q&A session, where participants engaged deeply with the presenters on topics ranging from the role of music in advocacy to strategies for optimizing project materials for broader dissemination and adaptation to diverse contexts.
The networking session that followed was enhanced by a special piano performance by Marko Ostojić, fostering an atmosphere conducive to further collaboration and idea-sharing among participants. Representatives from the European Parliament and European Commission added significant value to the discussions, underscoring the event's influence in policymaking circles.
In attendance were 33 participants, representing a spectrum of organizations including the European Commission, Center for European Volunteering, JEF Europe, CESES, EASPD, CONNECT INTERNATIONAL and various Brussels-based stakeholders. Their feedback underscored their admiration for the project's outcomes, particularly the creative outputs and the profound engagement of young people in local initiatives.
The multiplier event not only achieved its immediate objectives but also served as a catalyst for ongoing dialogue and future actions. It successfully broadened the reach of project results and reinforced its impact on decision-makers and stakeholders across Europe. Looking ahead, the community remains informed about forthcoming project activities, ensuring continued momentum towards fostering EU values through innovative means like music. In conclusion, the Belgian multiplier event was a success, exemplifying how collaborative efforts and creative expressions can effectively advance societal change and civic engagement within the EU framework.
Association for Better Life, Slovakia
The Slovakian multiplier organized by P3 (SK) in Herlany near Kosice was held on 3rd may 2024 to generate maximum interest among the target group and stakeholders and to achieve widespread awareness of the Project Results and its lessons learned in the community (where 90% of the population were Roma) and beyond. Invitations were sent to partners, networks, and contacts, targeting young people, youth workers, community stakeholders such as NGOs, public institutions, schools, organizations active in the field of non-formal and formal learning, youth work, community work, arts/music, foundations or other grant-making institutions, as well as local and regional policymakers and politicians.
The event began with an introduction to YEPP Europe and its network, providing attendees with insights into the Songs for Change project. 37 Participants learned about workshop structures and international meetings, followed by an engaging quiz on the European Union. The quiz covered topics such as EU values, membership, currency adoption, historical formation, and election details, highlighting the significance of EU education amid growing anti-European sentiments in Slovakia.
All the project results were then presented, including PR1: Songs for Change Toolkit; PR2: Song Creation Series; PR3: Video Tutorial Production and PR4: Songs for Change Broadcast.
A video clip showcasing project achievements, particularly the song "Dživipen", was screened, accompanied by interviews where young participants shared personal impacts and experiences. This led into an open discussion about the project's outcomes and future implications.
The event featured performances by young participants, including songs and traditional Roma dances, contributing to its lively atmosphere. It concluded with dinner and discussions focused on leveraging project results in the future. Stakeholders and youth attendees left feeling motivated and inspired, expressing keen interest in future involvement and the utilization of project outcomes.
Overall, the event was successful in fostering motivation, inspiration, and productive discussions among attendees, aiming to promote active citizenship and advance project initiatives further.
