The JMI Power of Music Podcast

Step into a journey that bridges music, culture, and society with Robert Manchin! In this episode of The Power of Music podcast, we welcome Robert, a sociologist, economist, musician, and cultural leader whose remarkable career connects the arts, policy, and social research. With decades of experience, he reflects on his early memories of JMI and the lessons they continue to inspire today.
Robert explores the value of being “useful to others,” the deep connection between music and identity, and how music grounds us in times of uncertainty. From the tension between the attention economy and the music economy, to the ways culture can guide us through complexity, Robert offers profound insights into music’s role in shaping how we live and understand the world.
Get ready for a conversation that’s as thoughtful as it is inspiring. If you enjoy the episode, don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave us a review!
ℹ️ JMI is a global network of NGOs that empowers young people through music across all boundaries. For more info, visit https://jmi.net or check out all the amazing opportunities for musicians on Mubazar (https://mubazar.com/en).

Step into the world of conducting with Patrick Hahn, one of the most exciting young maestros on today’s international stage! In this episode of The Power of Music podcast, we welcome Patrick, a conductor whose career spans opera, symphonic repertoire, contemporary works, and even jazz. With his fresh approach and fearless versatility, Patrick is redefining what it means to lead an orchestra in the 21st century.
From his reflections on becoming a conductor, to why lived experience is essential in understanding the music you perform, Patrick shares how authenticity can transform every performance.
He also looks back on conducting the inaugural JMI Unity 80 Orchestra, offering unique insights into collaboration, creativity, and the power of music to unite across generations and cultures. If you enjoy the episode, don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave us a review!
ℹ️ JMI is a global network of NGOs that empowers young people through music across all boundaries. For more info, visit https://jmi.net or check out all the amazing opportunities for musicians on Mubazar (https://mubazar.com/en).

Step into the inspiring story of music, resilience, and hope with Zeina Khoury! In this moving episode of The Power of Music podcast, we welcome Zeina, orchestra manager at the Edward Said National Conservatory of Music in Palestine where she oversees the Palestine National Orchestra, the Palestine Youth Orchestra, the ESNCM Orchestra, and the Jerusalem Children’s Orchestra. For over a decade, she has worked tirelessly to nurture Palestinian orchestral life under the Conservatory’s powerful motto: “Today an orchestra, tomorrow a state.”
Zeina shares how music offers moments of serenity, healing, and unity for communities facing ongoing challenges in Gaza and beyond. From rehearsals that bring young musicians together, to concerts that transcend borders, her work highlights the transformative role of music in building resilience and identity.
Tune in to hear about the unique difficulties of touring internationally with the Palestine Youth Orchestra—from logistical barriers to the deep emotional weight of representing Palestine on the world stage. If you enjoy the episode, don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave us a review!
ℹ️ JMI is a global network of NGOs that empowers young people through music across all boundaries. For more info, visit https://jmi.net or check out all the amazing opportunities for musicians on Mubazar (https://mubazar.com/en).

Step into the future of youth-driven music with Gustaf Bäckström Elmelid! In this inspiring episode of The Power of Music podcast, we welcome Gustaf, the international coordinator for RMS in Sweden, Chair of the Imagine Music Experience, and director of Unga tankar om musik. With his passion for supporting the next generation of artists, Gustaf has become a leading force in reimagining what the global music industry can look like.
 From creating platforms like Imagine that empower young musicians to dream big, to his vision of making these competitions accessible on every continent, Gustaf is committed to breaking barriers and expanding opportunities worldwide.
Tune in as Gustaf shares his thoughts on building an inclusive and forward-looking music ecosystem, why opportunities like Imagine matter so much for emerging artists, and how nurturing creativity today can reshape the sound of tomorrow. If you enjoy the episode, don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave us a review!
ℹ️ JMI is a global network of NGOs that empowers young people through music across all boundaries. For more info, visit https://jmi.net or check out all the amazing opportunities for musicians on Mubazar (https://mubazar.com/en).

In this episode of The Power of Music podcast, we welcome Adela Valverde Monterreal, Cultural Manager, formerly at the Reset!. 
Her journey back to her roots reignited a powerful connection to music and community—reminding her of the deep roots and collective strength that art can bring. With a focus on slowing down and creating space for artists, she shares why reflection and balance are essential in today’s fast-paced cultural world. Beyond her personal story, Adela Valverde Monterreal highlights the vital role of the independent cultural sector in shaping a healthy, diverse arts ecosystem. Join us for an inspiring conversation about rediscovering purpose, valuing community, and protecting independence in the cultural landscape. 
ℹ️ JMI is a global network of NGOs that empowers young people through music across all boundaries. For more info, visit https://jmi.net or check out all the amazing opportunities for musicians on Mubazar (https://mubazar.com/en).