Global movement brings hope and harmony as children’s hoirs join legendary Grandpa Elliott in uplifting song

New York, N.Y. – In a world often divided by borders and beliefs, one organization continues to bridge gaps and inspire hope through the universal language of music. 

Playing For Change, a global movement founded in 2002, has brought together musicians and children’s choirs from every continent for a stirring rendition of “What a Wonderful World,” featuring the legendary New Orleans street musician Grandpa Elliott. Their mission: to connect humanity, foster peace, and remind us all of the beauty that still exists in our shared world.

Who: The Faces and Voices of Playing For Change

Founded by Mark Johnson and Whitney Kroenke, Playing For Change began as a vision to capture the heartbeat of humanity through street music. Their journey led them to legendary performers like Grandpa Elliott, whose soulful harmonica and voice became central to the movement’s most beloved performances. 

The organization unites musicians–many of whom have never met in person–from over 60 countries, creating “Songs Around The World” that blend diverse talents into a single, harmonious message.

What: A Song, a Movement, a Mission

The latest project, a global cover of “What a Wonderful World,” exemplifies the heart of Playing For Change. Children’s choirs from North America, Africa, and Europe join Grandpa Elliott and other musicians, each performing in their own language and style, yet seamlessly woven together by the song’s timeless optimism. The movement’s broader mission extends beyond music videos: it funds music and art schools, provides free education to hundreds of children weekly, and promotes peace through creative collaboration.

When: Two Decades of Harmony

Since its founding in 2002, Playing For Change has produced over 400 videos and recorded more than 1,200 musicians, reaching over two billion viewers worldwide. The “What a Wonderful World” collaboration, released in 2012, continues to resonate today, especially as the world seeks hope and unity in challenging times. The organization’s impact has only grown, with ongoing tours, new recordings, and a thriving foundation supporting children’s education.

Where: From New Orleans to the World

What began on the streets of America now spans the globe. Playing For Change has filmed and recorded in more than 60 countries, from bustling cities to remote villages. The “What a Wonderful World” video features children’s choirs and musicians performing in their local environments, showcasing the rich diversity of cultures united by music. Grandpa Elliott, once a fixture on the sidewalks of New Orleans, now stands as a symbol of the movement’s reach and spirit.

Why: Music as a Force for Good

At its core, Playing For Change believes that music can break down boundaries and foster understanding. By connecting people across continents, languages, and backgrounds, the organization promotes peace, empathy, and positive change. Their multilingual, multicultural approach ensures that every voice is heard and every child has the opportunity to learn, create, and share in the joy of music.

“In these hard times, children and music bring us hope for a better future.
Today we celebrate life and change the world one heart and one song at a time!”
– Playing For Change

The Legacy of “What a Wonderful World”

Written by Bob Thiele and George David Weiss and first recorded by Louis Armstrong in 1967, “What a Wonderful World” has long been a beacon of optimism. The Playing For Change version, with Grandpa Elliott and global children’s choirs, breathes new life into the classic, reminding us that beauty, kindness, and hope persist-even in adversity.

Grandpa Elliott: From Street Corner to Global Stage

For over 65 years, Grandpa Elliott Small played music on the streets of New Orleans, touching countless lives with his warmth and wisdom. His involvement with Playing For Change brought his message of love and resilience to millions. Even after his passing, his legacy endures, celebrated by fans and fellow musicians worldwide, and memorialized in his hometown’s Congo Square.

Impact Beyond the Song

• Over 1,200 musicians recorded in 60+ countries
• More than 400 videos produced, viewed by 2 billion people
• Nine music schools in six countries, serving 700+ students weekly
• A global family of supporters and fans, united by a shared belief in music’s power to change the world

Support the work of Playing for Change (link). Get access to more videos and free downloads: https://playingforchange.com/home2

#PlayingForChange #WhatAWonderfulWorld #GrandpaElliott #GlobalMusic #MusicForPeace

TAGS: Playing For Change, What a Wonderful World, Grandpa Elliott, children’s choirs, global music,
music education, peace through music, Songs Around The World, multicultural collaboration

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