Show Notes
Today on Peace is Power , Janessa Gans Wilder speaks with renowned Iraqi cellist, composer, and conductor Karim Wasfi about the role of music, culture, and human connection in the midst of violence and division.
Drawing from his experiences performing in Baghdad after car bombings and working in communities affected by war, Maestro Karim Wasfi describes music as a force that can reclaim humanity, restore dignity, and reconnect people to themselves and one another. Throughout the conversation, Wasfi reflects on the deeper meaning of peace, arguing that it is not passive or weak, but one of the most strategically powerful forces available to humanity. The discussion explores harmony as both a musical and social principle, the importance of arts education, and the urgent need to move beyond fear, polarization, and ideological conflict.
Key Takeaways:
Reclaiming Humanity Through Music Karim Wasfi explains why he brought his cello to the site of a Baghdad car bombing, describing it as an act of reclaiming space for humanity and resisting fear through beauty and connection.
Peace Is a Powerful Force Rather than viewing peace as passive, Wasfi argues that peace creates endurance, legitimacy, trust, and long-term resilience in individuals and societies.
Art and Culture Are Essential, Not Peripheral The conversation emphasizes that music, education, and culture are not luxuries but necessary foundations for healing, identity, and human dignity.
Harmony Begins Within Wasfi describes harmony as both a musical principle and a way of living, encouraging people to cultivate inner coherence and deep listening as a path toward collective peace.
A Vision for Global Connection Wasfi proposes the idea of a worldwide “Day of Harmony,” where people across cultures and time zones connect through music, silence, and shared listening as an act of collective peacebuilding.
Timestamps: (00:13) Music, Iraq, and the search for harmony- Janessa introduces the episode and reflects on how music shaped her understanding of connection and healing during her time in Iraq. (04:07) Playing cello at the site of a bombing- Karim explains why he performed in the aftermath of violence to reclaim space for humanity and resist fear. (06:44) The healing power of sound- A discussion on harmony, frequency, and how music creates connection within ourselves and with others. (11:33) Conducting harmony in divided societies- Karim shares how leading an orchestra in Iraq becomes a practice in trust, collaboration, and coexistence. (17:31) Courage in the face of threats and extremism- Karim reflects on continuing his work despite danger and why peacebuilding must become a way of life rather than a project. (24:53) Performing near the front lines in Mosul- Karim recounts a powerful encounter with a young girl fleeing ISIS-controlled areas who recognized humanity in music. (31:47) Why artists belong at the center of diplomacy- The conversation explores the role of culture and storytelling in peacebuilding and international relations. (34:00) Reclaiming the arts in modern society- Janessa and Karim discuss arts education, AI, and why creativity is essential for humanity’s future. (38:00) Creating spaces for harmony and deep listening- Karim describes community gatherings in Iraq centered on shared sound, silence, and expression. (46:38) A global day of harmony- Karim shares his vision for a worldwide movement where people connect through music, listening, and collective peace practices.
Guest bio:
Maestro Karim Wasfi serves as the Chief Conductor and Director of the Iraqi National Symphony Orchestra, utilizing his distinguished musical career to champion creativity as a profound medium for peace. As the founder of the Center for Creativity-Peace through Arts, he mentors youth and orphans from diverse backgrounds, fostering...
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