Europe, Performing Arts, Raising Awareness, Interethnic Dialogue
United by Sound focuses on music as a means of bringing people together. The project involves collaborations with musicians, composers, and artists from both the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities. They come together to create and perform music that reflects the shared heritage and cultural diversity of Cyprus. While the project is rooted in Cyprus, it also seeks to engage with the international music community and share the message of unity and cooperation particularly in divided communities globally.
Due to the division of Cyprus, which dates back to the mid-20th century, the city of Nicosia is physically divided into two parts: the southern part, controlled by the internationally recognised government of Cyprus and inhabited primarily by Greek Cypriots, and the northern part, controlled by the self-declared Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, recognised only by Turkey and inhabited mainly by Turkish Cypriots.
The division is symbolised by the Green Line, a United Nations-controlled buffer zone that runs through the city, separating the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities. It has persisted for decades, despite numerous attempts to find a peaceful resolution to reunify the island. The difficulties in maintaining meaningful contact and communication among two communities hinder efforts to address issues of mutual concern, and further heighten frictions in an increasingly militarised region. This is backed by the organisation's difficulties in having to comply with different regulations and policies, as well as being attentive to sensitivities and narratives across the divide and around the buffer zone.
Community needs-based approach focuses on current issues communities are facing and include local expertise in developing solutions
Music is being used as universal language and promotion of collaboration between divided communities
Created opportunities for dialogue and collaboration between individuals who may not have interacted otherwise.
It challenged stereotypes and prejudices by demonstrating the shared humanity and creativity of individuals from both sides of the divide.
As a result of the project, eight musicians, from divided communities, have formed a band called Island Seeds. They're working together, creating music and performing in festivals.
We have people who never crossed the border before, and through this type of programme, they do it for the first time or they meet someone from other communities for the first time.
