Music Matters PULSE is a joint music and health project between the Norwegian Band Federation (NMF) in Norway and the Field Band Foundation (FBF) in South Africa. Through exchanges of Norwegian and South African music professionals, the project shares practical knowledge about musical activities and how these can promote well-being and social inclusion for young people in bands.
Supported by the Norwegian Agency for Exchange Cooperation (NOREC), the partnership strengthens each organization’s capacity to serve their communities. It empowers young people, preparing them to seize opportunities and contribute to a more inclusive society. Research from musician surveys shows that teenagers involved in bands report higher life satisfaction than those outside.
The work in both organizations equips young people with new skills, helps them develop confidence in their musical abilities and beyond, and builds resilience so they are better prepared for the future.
In 2026, the FBF and NMF will celebrate 25 years of this mutually beneficial partnership. Music matters because it uniquely teaches us how to be together in better, different ways. Our social connection through this partnership remains strong, and our experience shows we are strongest together.
NORWAY | The Norwegian Band Federation
The participants on exchange in Norway work for the Norwegian Band Federation(NMF), Norway’s largest publicly supported cultural organization, representing 1,600 music and drill bands nationwide.
Here, they contribute to Youth Lift, NMF’s ambitious ten-year initiative aimed at strengthening the future of bands through increased youth participation and development. The goal of Youth Lift is to create lasting, positive growth within the band community — ensuring that more young people stay involved and continue to develop both musically and personally.
Through various programs as part of this initiative – such as Spillkveld, Band Visit, SoundLab and Fast-track – the participants provide guidance on different aspects of music-making, while promoting inclusivity and cultural diversity. Their focus is on equipping young musicians with the skills to run their own rehearsals, arrange their own songs, and most importantly, have fun playing together as a band!
The team is based in Oslo, but travels to regions across the country.
SOUTH AFRICA | The Field Band Foundation
In South Africa, the PULSE participants work for the Field Band Foundation, a non-profit organization which runs ten marching bands across the country. The organization creates opportunities for the development and self- empowerment of young South Africans through participation in music, dance and active citizenship projects.
The participants are part of the Education Department at Head Office, where they plan and run workshops and training sessions for Field Band staff. These cover topics such as music theory, arranging, conducting, life skills, show design, and teaching methods. They also provide general support to the organization, as well as develop and update educational materials for use in the bands.
Their work is a mix of field-based activities and office tasks.
