Changing Lives Through Music
The transformative power of music is exemplified by Keys of Change, currently using music to empower young people in Ecuador, Mexico, India, Ghana, and Japan. Bellow are just a few examples of how Keys of Change has been using music to empower young people around the world. Whether in Ecuador, India, Ghana, or Fukushima, the transformative power of music is evident, with young people developing valuable life skills, such as discipline, collaboration, and perseverance, while also building a sense of community and self-worth. Ultimately, Keys of Change is helping create a brighter and more hopeful future for young people, demonstrating the power of music to transform lives and foster positive social change.
For past programmes, and other projects, managed by our partner organisation Keys of Change CIO, please click here.
Current projects
2011-present
Quito, Ecuador
25 students
In Ecuador, the Keys of Change has been working with the Quito “Keys” Guitar Group, offering free lessons and instruments to young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. Through this program, the young musicians have been able to develop their talents and explore their creativity, building a sense of self-worth, belonging, and community. Keys of Change has also provided mentorship and training for the orchestra's future tutors, further enhancing the program's impact and sustainability.
2019-present
Chennai, India
30 students
In India, Keys of Change has been working with young people from Chennai to create the Chennai Youth Sinfonietta. Through their music program, young people have been able to learn traditional and contemporary music, developing their skills and engaging in cross-cultural dialogue. The result is a sustainable and impactful program that has transformed the lives of many young people, giving them a sense of pride, purpose, and connection to their heritage.
2018-present
Accra, Ghana
50 students
In Ghana, Keys of Change has been working with young people living in a children home, often affected by poverty and crime. Here, Keys of Change has created a musical community, the Accra "Keys" Youth Orchestra, that offers classes in traditional and contemporary music. Through its programs, Keys of Change has been able to help young people develop their skills, build a sense of community, and create positive connections with their environment. The children home has also become a hub for cultural exchange, bringing together young people from different backgrounds and fostering a sense of unity and collaboration.
2011-present
Fukushma, Japan
100 students
Keys of Change has been working in Fukushima, Japan, to address the traumatic effects of the 2011 nuclear disaster. Keys of Change has been using music as a way to support the mental health and well-being of young people who have been affected by the disaster. Through the creation of the Fukushima Youth Sinfonietta, the young musicians have been able to express their emotions, build resilience, and create a sense of hope for the future. In particular, the Fukushima Youth Sinfonietta, created with the support of Keys of Change, has become a symbol of hope and resilience, bringing together young people from different backgrounds and cultures in a powerful celebration of life and music.
2019-present
Cerritos, Ecuador
30 students
Keys of Change is working in the Cerritos community in the Ecuadorian Andes to create a brass band, the Cerritos "Keys" Brass Band, empowering young people with the transformative power of music. In this programme, participants receive free lessons and instruments, enabling them to develop their musical skills and creativity. The brass band not only enhances the cultural richness of the community but also provides an alternative vocation. Through this program, young people are able to develop discipline, teamwork, and leadership skills, building a sense of pride and a community of support. The programme has already shown impressive results, with participants demonstrating significant improvements both musically and personally. Keys of Change is committed to ensuring the sustainability of the program, providing mentorship and training for the conductor and strengthening community partnerships. Ultimately, this program is demonstrating how music can change lives and create positive social change in communities like Cerritos.
2018-present
Oaxaca, Mexico
50 students
Keys of Change is also making a difference in the Oaxaca community in Mexico by helping young people be part of the Santa Cecilia Youth Symphony Orchestra. Through this program, young participants receive lessons on their chosen instruments, giving them the opportunity to develop their musical skills and pursue their passion for music. The youth symphony orchestra provides an empowering space for young people to express themselves, build confidence, and create meaningful relationships with their peers. The programme promotes inclusion and celebrates diversity, bringing together young people from different cultural backgrounds and social classes. This youth symphony orchestra not only enriches the cultural scene of Oaxaca but also creates opportunities for young musicians to showcase their talent, build valuable life skills, and pursue a career in music. Keys of Change is committed to ensuring the sustainability of the program, offering training and mentorship and providing opportunities for the young musicians to perform in public concerts. Ultimately, this programme demonstrates how music can transform lives and create positive social change in communities like Oaxaca, Mexico.