International Music Day

International Music Day is observed on October 1st each year. It’s a global celebration of music in all its forms—the sounds, the composers, the performers, the traditions, and the way music connects people across cultures and generations.

History of International Music Day

The idea of International Music Day was proposed by Lord Yehudi Menuhin when he was President of the International Music Council. The decision to set October 1 as the day of observance was made in 1975, following a resolution from the International Music Council’s General Assembly.

The goals were to promote musical arts among all segments of society, to support exchanges between different cultures, and to foster peace and friendship through music. Since then, the day has been marked by concerts, performances, musical gatherings, and celebrations of musical diversity.

Why is International Music Day important?

Music is one of the universal ways people express emotion, culture, and identity. This day reminds us how much music shapes our lives—how it can heal, joyfully unite, inspire, and reflect who we are, sometimes even before we have words. It’s also a reminder of the effort, creativity, and sometimes sacrifice behind every melody, every song, every instrument.

It helps bring people together. Different genres, old and new, traditional and experimental—all find space. It also allows us to appreciate those whose voices or contributions might be overlooked: amateur musicians, elders, local traditions. Celebrating this day encourages inclusion and respect for music’s many forms.

Some things many people find meaningful:

• listening to music from cultures other than our own
• recognizing local musicians or undiscovered talent
• having moments of stillness just to hear the melody, the harmony, the voice
• sharing music with friends, family, or young people who might not yet hear it often
• using music to heal, uplift, or simply bring peace

How to Celebrate International Music Day

You don’t need to be a professional musician. Start by playing music you love—put on a song that moves you, maybe pick up an instrument, even if imperfectly. If possible, attend a concert, open mic, or musical event in your area. If none are available, perhaps organize something small: share music with friends, or invite someone to play together.

Countries and communities often host performances—from street music to stage concerts, traditional and modern blending. Schools may hold special classes or performances, radio stations do themed broadcasts, people exchange songs and playlists.

Here are simple ideas:

• listen to a new genre of music you’ve never tried
• play or sing something yourself, even at home
• share your favorite songs with someone who might not know them
• support local musicians by buying music or attending a show
• use the day to reflect on how music influences your mood, memories, identity

International Music Day Dates Table

Alex’s Take on International Music Day

What a great holiday! Do you love music as much as I do? I never studied professionally, but I play quite a few instruments—guitar, handpan, recorder, harmonica, kalimba. For me, it’s rest, it’s comfort, it’s therapy when I’m down. It’s my way of being creative. I really recommend everyone try playing an instrument. If you’ve never played before, start with something simple—I highly recommend the kalimba. You don’t even need to know music theory; online you can find plenty of melodies with tabs. And you can always just jam for the soul.

Don’t put it off for “someday.” If you’re like most people and always postpone new experiences, use this holiday as your excuse to act—pick up an instrument today!

Here’s a simple idea: go watch a short kalimba video, then get yourself a basic instrument. Don’t buy the cheapest toy version, but you also don’t need to go too expensive. And when you manage to play your very first melody, write to me about your experience—stories like that really inspire me. Don’t be shy, don’t be lazy. I’ll be very grateful and happy to hear from you.