SommerPULSE highlights, Tverlandet Memories, and Band visits to wrap up
PULSE South: Empowering Community Through Music in Bodø’s Tverlandet
For the past 3 months, our PULSE South team embarked on an inspiring project in Bodø’s Tverlandet community, where we initiated a new band comprising members who had never played an instrument before. Over the course of a 5-day workshop, we had the privilege of guiding 7 enthusiastic participants through the joys of music-making.
The journey culminated in a thrilling concert on the final day, where our fledgling band proudly performed three songs and a captivating drum solo before an engaged audience of 50-60 people at their school. The event was a testament to the power of community music initiatives and drew striking parallels with our work in South Africa through the Field Band Foundation, where we employ innovative teaching methods to empower young musicians.
Our project was led by the dedicated Youth Leader, Siri J Westlund, alongside Music Leader Phenyo Block, who played a pivotal role in shaping the musical aspects of the workshop. Together, they fostered an environment where youth not only learned to play instruments but also discovered the transformative impact of music.
The success of this initiative underscores the universal language of music and its ability to bring people together, transcending boundaries and experience levels. We’re thrilled to have onboarded local youth who lent their support to both PULSE and their peers, creating a harmonious balance that made the event truly special.
This experience reinforces our belief in the potency of music as a tool for community engagement and development. We’re grateful to everyone involved and look forward to continuing our mission of spreading the joy of music through PULSE South.
This summer, we had the privilege of being facilitators at SommerPULSE: a space where music, movement, and mentorship came together in the most beautiful way. What started as a room full of unfamiliar faces quickly transformed into a vibrant community of connection, creativity, and shared joy.
A special part of this journey was meeting three BCB alumni who have been deeply involved in the project over the years. Their continued presence brought a sense of legacy and continuity to the program. What truly stood out was how they carried the spirit of South Africa with them. Their energy was infectious, and their ability to dance while playing reminded us that music is not just heard, it’s felt, embodied, and celebrated. They inspired both participants and facilitators to move, to connect, and to express freely.
The kids brought their own spark, diving into the experience with curiosity and courage. Their enthusiasm lit up the room, and their openness helped turn rehearsals into moments of genuine connection. The staff, too, played a vital role, supportive, passionate, and always ready to turn challenges into opportunities for growth.
By the end of the week, we were no longer strangers. We were collaborators, friends, and part of a shared story that will echo far beyond the final performance. SommerPULSE reminded us that when music meets community, magic happens.
Routine resumed. Purpose unchanged
After a season of special projects and summer energy, we’re now settling back into our regular working schedule, and it feels grounding to return to the steady rhythm of working with youth.
There’s something powerful about consistency. Week by week, we meet young people where they are; whether it’s in rehearsals, workshops, or casual conversations. These moments, though quieter than big events, are where trust is built and growth takes root.
The youth continue to bring their energy, ideas, and unique perspectives. Their openness to learning and creating reminds us why this work matters. It’s not just about teaching, it’s about listening, guiding, and growing together.
As facilitators, we’re here to hold space, spark curiosity, and support their journeys. And as we return to our regular schedule, we’re reminded that impact doesn’t always come in big waves, it often comes in the small, steady steps we take together.
NMF-Nettverkssamling 2026
We hosted a successful 3-day workshop with various NMF departments to discuss key aspects of banding and working with young people across different age groups. The departments that participated included:-
Spillkveld (Including musical team), Undom (Korpsattest), Korpsutviklere- Band Developers and Fast Track Team (working with PULSE to support youth in arranging)
External guest: Principal from Kultural school in Norway (former Band Crossing Borders participant. )We shared valuable tools to strengthen our organization and communities. Norman Lagese,- a board member, also contributed, discussing topics such as volunteer work, running free markets, and youth recruitment in the bands. This gathering showcased NMF’s commitment to collaboration and youth empowerment through music.
We are honored to have been visited by Ellen Nevendal, who is a former Band Crossing Borders participant in NMF and the Field Band Foundation.
Ellen is currently a Music Therapist at Toneheim Folkehøgkole. She shared her expertise at the NMF network gathering, providing NMF employees with valuable guidance on working compassionately with individuals with diverse special needs and disabilities. We are thrilled to have her insights, and we are very proud of her remarkable journey
We are delighted to see our Band Crossing Borders Alumni actively contributing to NMF’s mission! sharing a common goal, they are making a meaningful impact. Recent participants include
- Ann Elise
- Ellen Neverdal
- Siri Storheim
- Camilla Aasnes Engås
- Norman Lagesen
Their involvement showcases the power of collaboration and shared purpose within our organization.
Written by Refiloe & Phenyo
Pictures by PULSE
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