In the heart of Haiti, there’s an evocative saying, “Mizik se lanmou.” Translated, it means, “Music is love.” In this sentiment, we find the essence of an extraordinary international event – Play Music on the Porch Day.
Initiated in 2013, this event has transformed porches, patios, and balconies into stages that resonate with the melodies of love and unity. By 2018, its rhythm could be felt in the hum of over 70 countries, with thousands of musicians sharing their heart’s song, bridging distances, and binding souls. From the rhythmic beats of African drums to the passionate strains of Spanish guitars, from the soulful renditions on Indian sitars to the contemporary beats of electronic dance music, Play Music on the Porch Day has seen it all.
However, the beauty of this event isn’t limited to just the professionals. It’s a clarion call for everyone, from those who can create music to those who admire it, to come together and revel in the symphony of sounds. As the world becomes increasingly digital and distant, this event serves as a reminder of the power of raw, live music – a force potent enough to break barriers and weave hearts into a singular tapestry of emotions.
The universality of music is its most outstanding feature. It doesn’t judge or discriminate. It doesn’t see borders or languages. It only feels. And on this day, as the world hums, strums, and beats in unison, the echo of the Haitian phrase “Mizik se lanmou” rings truer than ever.
At the heart of this global movement stands a visionary — Brian Mailman. When he inaugurated Play Music on the Porch Day in 2013, perhaps even he couldn’t fathom the symphonic wave it would create. Brian’s passion for music and his belief in its transcendental power is the cornerstone upon which this day stands. It’s his brainchild that encouraged countless artists, both known and unsung, to share their musical gifts from their porches, creating an unparalleled sense of community. His vision didn’t just give birth to an event; it fostered a worldwide movement, emphasizing the essence of shared sounds and collective experiences. In celebrating Play Music on the Porch Day, we are not just celebrating music, but also Brian Mallman’s incredible foresight and dedication to making the world a more harmonious place. Cheers to all the heroes and champions who work in hushed spaces to make this event happen each year! Cheers to the peacemakers!
As we find ourselves once again on this August 26, 2023, the anticipation for this day has been palpable. Musicians tuning their instruments, and listeners marking their calendars, all anticipating this magical hour when the world becomes one big porch, united by the chords of music.
In the cascade of notes and the rhythm of beats, Play Music on the Porch Day stands as a testament to music’s unparalleled power to connect, to heal, and to love. In a world often divided, here’s an event that reminds us of our shared humanity and the universal language that we all speak – the language of music.
