E.T.A. Hoffmann knew that “where language ends, music begins”. And he is right: music moves us human beings in our innermost being. It is a universal phenomenon – music is as diverse as our world. But wherever it is heard, it brings forth memories and feelings. It is also a piece of home which we carry within us. When people move between countries and cultures, music travels with them. It creates identity and cohesion, overcomes interpersonal hurdles and cultural divides. It arouses curiosity and invites people to join in. 

The MitMachMusik initiative uses this unique power of music to open up ways for refugee children and young people to playfully grow into our society. They are guided by musicians who have experienced the fate of flight themselves. For teachers and students, making music together is the key to enabling encounters, experiencing recognition and participation. As patron, I support MitMachMusik in building musical bridges and strengthening togetherness in our country – piece by piece, note by note and bar by bar.