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Music, Identity, Belonging: Singing Who We Are

Explore how music helps people discover who they are and feel they belong. A reflection on identity, community, and creative expression with Gen Verde.
Gen Verde in Concert_Houston, Texas - Photos by Dennis Clifford, DAC-Photography
Gen Verde in Concert_Houston, Texas – Photos by Dennis Clifford, DAC-Photography (166)

Our identity is shaped by the stories we tell, the cultures we carry, and the connections we build with others. Music brings all of these elements together. Through melodies, rhythms, and lyrics, we don’t just express ourselves—we uncover who we are and where we belong. For Gen Verde, music is a journey of self-discovery and shared humanity, where each voice adds meaning to the whole.

How Music Helps Us Discover Who We Are

Music has a unique ability to bring our inner worlds to the surface. Whether we’re writing, performing, or simply listening, musical expression can reveal deeply personal stories, values, and emotions. Through music, we explore and express who we are and what matters most to us, which in our case is to live and communicate the message of the Gospel: love, universal fraternity, justice, forgiveness, empathy.

This process is not only creative but also reflective—helping people, especially young people, strengthen their self-awareness and experience these values. Creating music or connecting with lyrics allows us to see ourselves more clearly, to name emotions, and to better understand our place in the world.

In this way, music becomes more than art—it becomes a safe and inspiring space to find your voice and embrace your identity.

Singing with Our Whole Selves: Culture, Language, and Memory

Music and identity are closely linked. A single melody can connect us to our childhood, to our family traditions, or to places we once called home. The sounds and languages we grow up with shape how we experience the world.

This is especially true in Gen Verde’s music, which embraces a multilingual and multicultural repertoire. Singing in many languages is not only an artistic choice—it’s an act of inclusion and respect. It honors the rich diversity of roots within the group and reflects how cultural identity is expressed through music and art.

When we sing with our whole selves—voice, language, memory—we give expression to our full humanity.

Belonging Through Harmony: Finding Your Place in the Collective

Just as voices blend in harmony, people can find unity through diversity. Music offers a powerful metaphor for community: different notes and rhythms, when brought together, create something richer and more beautiful than any part alone.

In Gen Verde’s work, this idea comes to life. Each member brings her own cultural background, but all share a common goal: to listen, include, and create something meaningful together.

The group’s performances, performing arts workshops and choral workshop often highlight this principle—many voices, one sound. It’s a living example of how music teaches us mutual respect and collective strength.

Creating Space for Every Voice

Representation in the arts matters. It shapes who gets to be heard and who feels they belong. That’s why Gen Verde is intentional about creating space for every voice—especially those that are underrepresented or overlooked.

In performances, workshops, and collaborative projects, Gen Verde works to uplift diverse perspectives. The group’s songs and stories often reflect the experiences of people from many walks of life, making audiences feel seen, heard, and valued.

Music, in this context, becomes not only an expression of identity—it becomes a tool for visibility and empowerment.

The Music That Unites: When Identity Leads to Connection

When people feel free to express who they are, deeper connections can form. Shared music moments often create a sense of community, where everyone feels part of something greater than themselves.

During Gen Verde’s concerts and workshops, participants frequently speak of feeling “at home”—not because they’ve met before, but because music builds a space where openness and empathy flourish.

These experiences remind us that music and identity are not just personal—they’re relational. When we embrace our own stories through music, we also open the door to understanding each other better.

Don’t miss our concerts in Loppiano on Saturday 29th at 9pm and Sunday 30th November at 4pm. All the information is available on our website.

If you would like to organise events, concerts and/or artistic workshops with Gen Verde, please send an e-mail to info@genverde.it with your question, info and contact details.

Discover our upcoming tour dates and join us for a live performance or workshop.