Omar Harfouch and the Legacy of Musical Activism: A Modern Call to ‘Give Peace a Chance
Music has always been a force for unity, a medium that transcends divisions and speaks to shared human experiences. From John Lennon’s Give Peace a Chance to Bob Dylan’s Blowin’ in the Wind, music has inspired movements, fostered dialogue, and challenged the status quo. Today, as the world faces new conflicts and divides, composer and pianist Omar Harfouch continues this tradition, bringing his Concerto for Peace to global stages and reigniting the call for harmony.
With a blend of classical European and Middle Eastern influences, Harfouch’s work reflects his French-Lebanese roots and a vision for a world where music bridges divides. From the sacred halls of the Vatican to the European Commission in Brussels, his concerts imply that music is not just art – it can be activism, diplomacy, and a powerful catalyst for change.
The Legacy of Lennon and Harfouch’s Modern Mission
Give Peace a Chance, written in the heat of the Vietnam War, became an anthem for pacifism, a simple but enduring reminder of the power of collective action for peace. Harfouch’s Concerto for Peace builds on this legacy, offering a more intricate, cross-cultural response to modern conflicts. While Lennon’s lyrics called on the world to embrace peace as an ideal, Harfouch’s compositions aim to create a shared emotional space where peace feels achievable.
“Music is the one language we all understand,” Harfouch has said. “It speaks to our shared humanity, no matter where we come from or what we believe. Through music, I hope to inspire individuals and leaders to see peace not as an abstract concept, but as something tangible we can achieve together.”
Harfouch’s music taps into universal emotions, fostering empathy and encouraging action. Whereas Lennon’s message was raw and direct, Harfouch’s compositions are layered, drawing on the sounds and traditions of multiple cultures to convey the complexity of peace-building in today’s interconnected world.
A Historic Stage: The Vatican Performance
On November 14, 2024, Harfouch brought his Concerto for Peace to the Salone Sistino of the Vatican’s Apostolic Library, marking the first-ever public concert held in the sacred space. The audience included spiritual leaders, academics, and dignitaries, all brought together by the shared hope for unity. Monsignor Vincenzo Zani, Prefect of the Apostolic Library, said “The Vatican Apostolic Library is very pleased to host this evening, together with the heads of the most important libraries in the world, for the first time in this historic place, a concert by Omar Harfouch. I greet him warmly and express my sincere thanks.” ***
The evening’s climax came when Harfouch was awarded the Vatican Jubilee 2025 Pontifical Medal, presented by Monsignor Zani on behalf of Pope Francis. The pontiff referred to Harfouch as a “pilgrim of peace,” acknowledging his work as both an artist and an activist. Reflecting on the honor, Harfouch said, “This medal is a reminder that each of us has a role to play in building peace. Whether through music, dialogue, or small acts of kindness, we all have the power to make a difference.”
Brussels, Paris, and the Global Stage
Before the Vatican, Harfouch performed at the European Commission in Brussels, the first classical musical event ever held at the institution*. Later, on September 18, 2024, Harfouch debuted a full orchestral arrangement of Concerto for Peace at the Théâtre des Champs-Élysées in Paris. With over 1,900 attendees – including diplomats, artists like Catherine Deneuve, and cultural leaders – the concert celebrated music’s ability to connect.
Music as a Catalyst for Chance
Harfouch’s work aligns with a rich history of musical activism, from Miriam Makeba’s anti-apartheid anthems to Kendrick Lamar’s calls for social justice. By weaving together themes of unity and cultural convergence, Harfouch creates a modern blueprint for music as a diplomatic tool. His Concerto for Peace includes You Save One Life, You Save Humanity, inspired by teachings from the Talmud and the Qur’an, emphasizing shared human values across religions.
“Music doesn’t solve conflicts, but it opens the door for conversation,” Harfouch explained. This sentiment echoes Yo-Yo Ma’s belief that “music builds bridges, not walls.” Harfouch’s performances embody this philosophy, creating a space where differences dissolve and shared humanity comes to the forefront.
Cultural Diplomacy and the Global Reception
At the Venice Film Festival on September 5, 2024, Harfouch received the Best Achievement for Peace Award from the Better World Fund, presented by Hollywood star Kevin Costner. Harfouch’s work also resonates in popular culture; his Paris performance even made it to Times Square billboards, signalling the global reach of his message.** With upcoming performances scheduled at the United Nations in Geneva, Dubai, and possibly New York City, Harfouch continues to use music to unite diverse audiences.
A Continuing Legacy of Peace
Omar Harfouch’s Concerto for Peace represents more than a concert – it is itself a movement. Harfouch’s work calls on the world to envision a better future. But where Lennon focused on rallying voices, Harfouch uses the intricacy of music to delve deeper, fostering empathy and understanding.
“Peace begins with each of us,” Harfouch has said. “Music alone won’t change the world, but it can inspire us to start the conversations and take the actions that will.”
As Harfouch takes his Concerto for Peace to new stages, his melodies suggest that that harmony – both musical and societal – is within reach. In a world craving connection, Harfouch proves that music is not just art; it is an enduring call to action, a bridge to a better future, and a powerful legacy of peace.
Source: 9 Figure Media
*according to a video of the event on his YouTube channel – OMAR HARFOUCH – Concert at the European Commission, Brussels