National Make Music Day, celebrated annually on June 21st in the United States, is part of the global Fête de la Musique movement, which began in France in 1982. The day encourages people of all musical abilities, from professionals to amateurs, to come together and make music in public spaces. The celebration promotes music as a universal language and fosters a sense of community through live, spontaneous performances.

History of National Make Music Day

National Make Music Day has its roots in the French celebration, Fête de la Musique, created by Jack Lang, France's Minister of Culture, and Maurice Fleuret, a composer and music journalist. Their goal was to create a music festival where people could celebrate music in public spaces and encourage both musicians and non-musicians to participate. The festival was held on the summer solstice to embrace the spirit of celebration during the longest day of the year.

The idea quickly spread across Europe and beyond. In 2006, the first Make Music Day was held in the United States. Today, hundreds of cities and towns across the U.S. participate in the event, making it a nationwide celebration of music.

Purpose and Mission

The main mission of Make Music Day is to make music accessible to everyone. The day celebrates inclusivity, with performances happening in public places like parks, streets, and plazas, and featuring music genres ranging from classical to jazz, pop, and rock. Performances are often free and open to the public, allowing anyone, regardless of their musical skill, to enjoy or participate in the experience.

The event also encourages:

• Cross-cultural musical exchanges by bringing together musicians and music lovers from diverse backgrounds.
• Educational opportunities, with workshops, group lessons, and instrument giveaways, promoting the joy of learning and playing music.

Ways to Celebrate National Make Music Day

1. Join or Organize a Public Performance: Whether you play an instrument or sing, you can take part in a public concert, jam session, or street performance. Many cities offer organized events where individuals and groups can perform in front of an audience.

2. Participate in Mass Music Events: Some Make Music Day celebrations feature mass participation events where large groups of people play the same song or instrument. Examples include guitar and ukulele strums or drumming circles.

3. Attend a Live Performance: If you don’t play an instrument, you can still enjoy the day by attending one of the many free performances held across cities, parks, and neighborhoods. Many of these concerts feature local artists, offering a chance to support homegrown talent.

4. Take a Music Lesson: Many cities offer free or low-cost music lessons as part of the Make Music Day celebrations. It's a perfect opportunity to pick up a new instrument or improve your existing musical skills.

5. Participate in Online Music Events: In addition to in-person events, Make Music Day has embraced digital platforms, offering virtual performances, online jam sessions, and music challenges that anyone can join from home.

6. Instrument "Petting Zoos" and Giveaways: Some cities host interactive music events where attendees can try out a variety of instruments, from strings to brass, or even win an instrument to take home.

Make Music Day Across the U.S.

Make Music Day has grown to become a prominent celebration in the United States, with more than 1,000 cities and towns participating, including major hubs like New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago, and smaller communities. The events vary from large concerts to neighborhood street performances, showcasing a wide range of musical genres and artists.

Some cities also host unique events, such as:

• Group instrument performances, like guitar, harmonica, or ukulele gatherings.
• Flash mobs in parks or urban spaces, where people gather to perform surprise concerts.
• Music parades and street festivals, where musicians walk through neighborhoods, bringing live music to different corners of the city.

Benefits of National Make Music Day

• Cultural exchange: By bringing together diverse musical styles and performers, Make Music Day serves as a platform for cultural sharing and understanding.
• Community engagement: The day fosters community spirit by encouraging interaction and collaboration among neighbors, musicians, and music lovers.
• Health and well-being: Music has been shown to reduce stress, increase feelings of happiness, and improve cognitive functions. Make Music Day encourages people to immerse themselves in the positive impact of music.
• Increased access to music education: The event promotes music education by offering free lessons and opportunities for people of all ages to explore their musical talents.

Fun Facts About Make Music Day

• The original French Fête de la Musique inspired similar music festivals in more than 120 countries around the world.
• In many cities, Make Music Day includes performances in unusual or unexpected venues, such as boats, porches, rooftops, and even subway stations.
• Some U.S. cities feature specific themes or tributes, such as jazz or classical performances, depending on the region’s musical heritage.

Conclusion

National Make Music Day is a vibrant and inclusive celebration that brings communities together through the joy of music. Whether you're a professional musician, an amateur, or simply someone who enjoys listening to music, the day offers opportunities for everyone to participate, learn, and enjoy live performances. The spirit of National Make Music Day is to share the gift of music with others, making it a unique and meaningful holiday for people of all ages and backgrounds.