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).

In this episode, we’re joined by Juan Sebastián Aguilar – composer, electric guitarist, and publishing specialist – whose career bridges the worlds of music creation and the business systems that sustain it. Originally from Colombia, Juan’s journey has taken him from jazz stages in Bogotá and Mexico to music industry leadership in Berlin, where he now heads Publishing at Paradise Worldwide. Alongside his own ensemble Arrabalero, he has toured internationally, performed at major festivals, and developed a deep understanding of how to protect and monetize creative work on a global scale.

We talk about the entrepreneurial mindset as a powerful driver in today’s music industry, the key lessons from Juan’s musical path from Colombia to New Orleans to Berlin, and why understanding music rights is essential for every artist. Juan also gives us a Publishing 101 crash course and shares his thoughts on the fast-approaching challenges and opportunities of AI in music rights management.

As always, if you enjoy our content, don’t forget to subscribe, like, and rate the podcast. We hope you enjoy the episode!

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, we’re joined by Tiffany Jade Holland – a singer, songwriter, producer, creative mentor, and community builder from the UK. With roots in fashion, marketing, and event production, Tiffany’s journey into music didn’t start with sheet music or studio time—it began with a need for healing and self-expression.

We dive into her transformative path, from discovering music later in life to becoming a driving force behind platforms like Circle of Light and Sugar Stealers. She opens up about leaving toxic environments, how to know when it’s time to move on, and why mental and emotional well-being are non-negotiable for young creatives. Tiffany’s story is a reminder that music isn’t just a career—it’s a lifeline.

ℹ️ JMI is a global network of NGOs that empowers young people through music across all boundaries. For more info, visit jmi.net or check out all the amazing opportunities for musicians on Mubazar.

Julien Beurms, classical pianist and Executive Director of Jeunesses Musicales Wallonie-Bruxelles, joins us for a conversation that explores the evolving landscape of classical music. With a strong background in both performance and cultural leadership, Julien shares insights into the 85-year legacy of the Jeunesses Musicales movement, the launch of the JMI Unity 80 Orchestra, and the importance of supporting emerging talent. He also emphasizes the need for entrepreneurial thinking within the classical music sphere, offering a forward-looking perspective on how tradition and innovation can work together. This episode is essential for anyone interested in the future of classical music and the role of international networks like JMI in shaping it.

ℹ️ JMI is a global network of NGOs that empowers young people through music across all boundaries. For more info go to https://jmi.net or check out all the amazing opportunities for musicians on Mubazar (https://mubazar.com/en).

🎶We’re joined by Lucija Maroević — vocalist, cultural anthropologist, and a leading voice in the Ethno movement 🌍🎶

From Zagreb, Lucija has led vocal workshops, directed choirs, and shared traditional music at Ethno gatherings across Europe and beyond. In 2024, she became the Chair of JMI’s Ethno Committee, and is now helping shape the future of this global music community.

In this episode, we talk about:
🎤 The power of the voice as an instrument
🌀 Preserving tradition while embracing reinterpretation
🇭🇷 70 years of Ethno Croatia
🏡 The unique cultural magic of Grožnjan
🌱 What’s next for Ethno

Tune in for a rich conversation on music, identity, and connection — and the role young artists play in keeping traditions alive.

ℹ️ JMI is a global network of NGOs that empowers young people through music across all boundaries. For more info, go to jmi.net or check out all the amazing opportunities for musicians on Mubazar.

#ThePowerOfMusic #EthnoCroatia #TraditionalMusic #CulturalExchange #Podcast

Our conversation explores the importance of open-earedness—the ability to listen without bias—and how it shapes both music education and our understanding of different cultures. We discuss the PERMA model of well-being and the role music plays in trauma healing, as well as the fascinating differences between playing and listening to music. We also dive into the impact of AI on the future of music and, on a more personal note, Giuliana reflects on the Bob Marley albums that continue to resonate with her from childhood to today.

 As always, if you enjoy our content, don’t forget to subscribe, like, and rate the podcast. We hope you enjoy the episode!

ℹ️ JMI is a global network of NGOs that empowers young people through music across all boundaries. For more info go to jmi.net or check out all the amazing opportunities for musicians on Mubazar.

In our conversation, we dive into the incredible role music plays in changing the lives of young people in Malawi, Mozambique and Zimbabwe as well as the challenges of achieving this mission.. Joe also shares his inspiring story and how Elton John’s red carpet somehow ended up in a recording studio in Sierra Leone! 

We explore the art of creating win-win scenarios, navigating complex environments, and the far-reaching impact of Music Crossroads. Tune in for powerful insights on how music can drive real change and make a difference in the world.

 As always, if you enjoy our content, don’t forget to subscribe, like, and rate the podcast. We hope you enjoy the episode!

ℹ️ JMI is a global network of NGOs that empowers young people through music across all boundaries. For more info go to jmi.net or check out all the amazing opportunities for musicians on Mubazar.

We dive into the challenges and opportunities of organizing an event on the scale of WOMEX, bringing together over 2,600 music professionals from across 90 countries each year. Gaurav shares insights into the delicate balance of curating an inclusive and diverse program while also pushing boundaries and keeping the event fresh and forward-looking. We also discuss what it takes to preserve the magic of WOMEX, ensuring it remains a space where global music communities can connect, collaborate, and inspire. And Gaurav lets us in on how he ended up making edits of 90s Bollywood disco tracks. As always, if you enjoy our content, don’t forget to subscribe, like, and rate the podcast. We hope you enjoy the episode!

ℹ️ JMI is a global network of NGOs that empowers young people through music across all boundaries. For more info go to jmi.net or check out all the amazing opportunities for musicians on Mubazar.

🌟 The JM Jazz World Orchestra is more than just an ensemble—it’s a launchpad for emerging jazz talent. Bringing together gifted musicians from around the world, it offers them a taste of the real-life touring experience, high-level mentorship, and the chance to perform on some of Europe’s finest stages. Pilvi, now a lead trumpet player, credits JMJWO for expanding her horizons, proving how crucial platforms like this are in shaping future jazz leaders. Luis, having worked with jazz icons throughout his career, discusses the importance of mentorship, diversity, and what makes JMJWO truly special.

✨ If you’re an aspiring jazz musician aged 18-26, you can apply now for the JM Jazz World Orchestra 2025 and be part of this transformative experience! Auditions are open until March 9, 2025. Rehearsals will take place in Grožnjan, Croatia, followed by a European tour through Italy, Germany, Slovenia, and beyond.

📢 Apply here: JMJWO 2025 Auditions
🌍 Learn more: www.jmjazzworld.com

Luis’ socials:
Instagram
Facebook

Pilvi’s socials:
Website
Instagram
Linkedin

If you enjoy this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, like, and rate the podcast. Join us in celebrating the power of jazz to inspire, connect, and transform! 🎶✨

ℹ️ JMI is a global network of NGOs that empowers young people through music across all boundaries. For more info go to jmi.net or check out all the amazing opportunities for musicians on Mubazar.

🌟 She shares her journey—from being a musician to running an independent label in the UK to founding Un-Convention, a movement connecting grassroots musicians worldwide—led her to witness firsthand the power of music in shaping societies. From hip-hop in Palestine to electronic music on politically charged dance floors, she discusses how artists in these regions are reclaiming their voices and creating impact despite the challenges they face.

✨ This episode is a powerful reflection on how music and creativity persist even in the toughest conditions, and how supporting artists in these spaces can help drive meaningful change.
If you enjoy this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, like, and rate the podcast. Join us in exploring the transformative power of music!

ℹ️ JMI is a global network of NGOs that empowers young people through music across all boundaries. For more info go to jmi.net or check out all the amazing opportunities for musicians on Mubazar.