The Universal Language of Music & Dance
New Hampshire’s diverse musical landscape, from the classical strains of the New Hampshire Music Festival to the lively tunes of the White Mountain Boogie & Blues Festival, demonstrates how music transcends cultural boundaries.
The state’s commitment to musical diversity is evident in events like the Nashua Multicultural Festival, where performances range from traditional songs to contemporary dance, uniting residents and visitors alike. Yes, music and dance are important … but also, they’re way more fun than doing taxes!
Dance as a Universal Expression in New Hampshire
In the White Mountains and beyond, dance becomes a universal expression of joy and cultural heritage. The NH Highland Games & Festival, held annually at Loon Mountain Resort, showcases Scottish dance traditions, bringing together people of Scottish descent and enthusiasts from various backgrounds. This celebration of movement and music creates a shared experience that bridges cultural divides.
Breaking Down Barriers in the Granite State
We know that one barrier to living in harmony with diverse people is unfamiliarity. Music and dance events in New Hampshire serve as powerful tools for breaking down social barriers. The Prescott Park Arts Festival in Portsmouth exemplifies this, offering free admission to a diverse array of performances, from ballet to rock bands, creating an inclusive space where people from all walks of life can learn about and enjoy the arts together.
Fostering Community and Togetherness
As New Hampshire becomes more diverse, our summer and fall festivals play a crucial role in building community spirit. Events like the Hillsborough Balloon Festival & Fair, the Manchester We Are One Festival, and the Concord Multicultural Festival combine music, dance and other activities to create a vibrant atmosphere where strangers become friends, united by their shared experiences.
Cultural Appreciation and Understanding
The state’s music festivals serve as platforms for cultural appreciation.The Keene Music Festival, held annually during Labor Day weekend, features local and regional artists representing New Hampshire’s diverse talent pool, fostering understanding and respect among different communities.
Healing and Empowerment Through New Hampshire’s Musical Traditions
A meta-analysis of 400 studies published in the American Psychological Association’s November 2023 issue revealed that music improves immune system function and reduces stress. From the therapeutic rhythms of traditional Abenaki music to the empowering melodies of contemporary New Hampshire artists, music and dance in the Granite State offer healing and strength to diverse communities. So, skip the gym and join a polka band! Just kidding … mostly. But seriously, it’s good exercise.
The Role in LGBTQ+ Communities
While New Hampshire may not have large urban centers, its inclusive spirit is evident in events like Portsmouth Pride, where music and dance play a significant role in celebrating diversity and promoting acceptance. Organizations such as NH Outright sponsor events that include the arts and music as a way for LGBTQ+ people to express themselves and to be seen in a positive light.
Global Influence and Cultural
The New Hampshire Music Festival, with its 73-year history, brings together exceptional artists from across the United States, creating a platform for cultural exchange through classical music. This festival, along with others like the Northlands Music & Arts Festival, showcases how the state embraces both traditional and contemporary musical forms.
Embrace the Power of Music and Dance
As we reflect on the unifying power of music and dance in New Hampshire, it’s clear that these art forms have the potential to create lasting connections and foster understanding among diverse communities. Now, more than ever, it’s crucial for each of us to actively seek out and share these experiences. Here’s how you can get involved:
- Attend local events: Make it a point to attend music and dance events in your area, especially those showcasing diverse cultural traditions.
- Learn a new dance style: Challenge yourself to learn a dance form from a different culture. Many community centers and dance studios offer classes for beginners.
- Share your musical heritage: If you have a unique musical or dance tradition, consider sharing it with others through performances or workshops.
- Support local artists: Attend concerts of local musicians and purchase their music to support the vibrant arts scene in New Hampshire.
- Organize community events: Work with your local community center or school to organize multicultural music and dance events.
- Use social media: Share your favorite music and dance experiences on social media, using hashtags like #NHMusic or #DanceNH to connect with others.
- Volunteer: Offer your time and skills to help organize music and dance festivals in your area.
- Educate yourself: Take time to learn about the history and significance of different music and dance styles from around the world. Sources such as your local library or NH PBS can open a window into a world of different cultures and genres.
From the serene lakes of the Lakes Region to the majestic peaks of the White Mountains, New Hampshire’s natural beauty provides a stunning backdrop for its diverse music and dance events. These gatherings not only entertain but also serve as powerful catalysts for unity, understanding and celebration of the state’s rich cultural tapestry.
As we look to the future, let’s commit to actively seeking out, participating in and sharing these transformative experiences. By embracing the power of music and dance, we can create a more connected, understanding and harmonious New Hampshire — one rhythm, one step at a time.
So, let’s dance to the beat of unity and sing the song of diversity. The stage is set, and the music is playing — it’s time for all of us to join in and create a more vibrant, connected New Hampshire through the universal languages of music and dance. Get out there and experience the music and dance of New Hampshire!
Remember, every time you engage with music and dance from diverse cultures, you’re not just enjoying an art form; you’re building bridges, fostering understanding and contributing to a more inclusive community. And if you see me on the dance floor, please don’t judge my questionable moves. I’m doing it for the culture, and the exercise, and the fun!
This article was featured in 603 Diversity.
603 Diversity’s mission is to educate readers of all backgrounds about the exciting accomplishments and cultural contributions of the state’s diverse communities, as well as the challenges faced and support needed by those communities to continue to grow and thrive in the Granite State.
