Tunes Translated

Tunes Translated is a vibrant intercultural music integration project that brings together migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers with the indigenous population of Belfast and beyond. The project fuses Irish Traditional teaching methods and tunes with global music traditions shared by participants. The project creates an inclusive and welcoming space where people can connect, learn, and create together. The Tunes Translated project was developed and researched by Catherine Crean for her MA Music Psychology in Education, Performance, and Wellbeing with the University of Sheffield. The project has three aims: facilitating integration, providing music education, and promoting wellbeing. Representing more than 20 nationalities, Tunes Translated uses music as a bridge for integration, friendship, and cultural understanding. Participants share not only songs and skills, but also stories, traditions, and lived experiences, helping to break down barriers and build stronger, more inclusive communities across Belfast and Northern Ireland. Through workshops, performances, and creative collaboration, the project supports confidence-building, communication, wellbeing, and a sense of belonging. Tunes Translated has performed at festivals, conferences, and delivered workshops with a wide range of community and statutory organisations, demonstrating the positive impact of creativity in bringing people together and celebrating cultural diversity.