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Musical Overtures

Alvin Atkinson plays the drums during a workshop for local children in Afghanistan

Alvin Atkinson plays the drums during a workshop for local children in Afghanistan

The Musical Overtures program promotes mutual understanding and strengthens American ties with nations involved in or recovering from conflict. Musical Overtures musicians are flexible and understand the limitations involved with travel, venues and security issues in these regions. They have considerable experience in education and professional performance, as well as experience working with U.S. Missions abroad through other programs.



Eligibility Requirements:
Musical Overture musicians are selected by the State Department from past participants in the Rhythm Road program.

Participant Stories
Photo of Alvin Atkinson and the Sound Merchants playing a concert in front of the Great Ziggurat of Ur in Iraq
Alvin Atkinson & The Sound Merchants in Iraq and Afghanistan
Photo of Alvin Atkinson singing into a microphone in front of a crowd on the streets of Afghanistan
USA Today: U.S. sends musicians to make overtures in war zones
Program Info
  • Important:

    There is no application process for this program.

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