Testimonials & Stories

Education & Music institutions

Queen’s University Belfast
“It was a privilege to have Mark Smulian present his work to students in the Politics of Performance Ethnomusicology module at Queen’s University Belfast. His insightful, wide-ranging and probing knowledge of performance issues and his unique development of the MindHarp captivated the audience. It was a super session and we look forward to continuing the conversation.”

BIMM (British & Irish Modern Music Institute)
“Mark Smulian’s masterclass was fascinating, philosophical and deeply practical. He explored how Respect, Responsibility and Listening underpin great performance, helping students understand how to reach ‘the Zone’ and apply emotional skills physically, intellectually and musically.”

Millfield School
“Original, memorable and inspired — Mark comes highly recommended. Through an attractive mix of musicology, psychology, theology and personal anecdote, he shared fascinating insights into human harmony and the emotional skills needed not just in the arts, but in social and political life.”
-Revd Philip Harbridge, Chaplain

Rosh HaAyin Music Center (Israel)
“Mark is an outstanding musician, educator and thinker. What sets him apart is his ability to introduce music in a deeply philosophical way, redefining the responsibility musicians have to society. His ensemble methods are transformative not only for musicians but for any working group.”
-Dr Meir Serrouya, Executive Director

Health, Wellbeing & Dementia Care

University of the West of England (Arts in Health)
“Mark is an inclusive teacher, able to put people at their ease and bring out the best in participants at any level. He draws on extensive musical knowledge and responds creatively to all kinds of challenges.”
– Prof. Norma Daykin, UWE Bristol

Peggy Dodd Centre (Dementia Care, Bath)
“Clients became more alert, more involved and happier. People who had never spoken before began laughing and talking together. The MindHarp created connection, confidence and wellbeing — it has become an invaluable part of our daily care.”
-Harriett Fews, Day Care Assistant

“The MindHarp has become an activity offered every day. We have seen clients become less agitated, speak in languages they hadn’t used for years, and respond with joy and absorption.”
– Rachel Burns, Centre Manager

Alzheimer’s Society
“The MindHarp is easy to use, requires no musical skill, and creates great interactions and conversations. Most of all — it is good fun.”
-Peter Conway

“There’s something about the MindHarp that gets her doing things she hasn’t done for a long time. It’s beautiful to see.”
– Louis Koonjean (family member)

Peacebuilding, Dialogue & Social Cohesion

Salaam Shalom (UK)
“Mark’s passion for using music to build profound connections and catalyse reconciliation is evident in every session. He delivers high-quality outcomes quickly, builds rapport easily with adults and children, and is a pleasure to work with.”
– Rebecca Bellamy, Programme Coordinator

Quaker Yearly Meeting (UK)
“Mark defused tension around the Gaza conflict within minutes by being honest and human about his own life in Israel. From there we moved into music-making that powerfully demonstrated how music brings people together. We left feeling there really is hope.”
– Fiona Meadley

Rosh HaAyin Leadership Programme (Israel)
“Mark’s session on music as a bridge for resolving conflict was extremely relevant to the challenges we face. His focus on Responsibility, Respect and Listening opened a new perspective on music as a tool for influence and hope.”
-Dr Nira Nahliel

Organisations & Teams

Manz Israel (High-tech company)
“Mark’s workshop showed us in real time what musicians mean by the ‘zone’. Through interactive exercises our team experienced how individuals and groups can align and create together. His professionalism led us into new ‘zones’ of understanding.”
– Eran Katzir, General Manager

Music Industry & International Press

Peter Gabriel Administration
“Mark is a well-rounded, accomplished musician and producer. If he says he can do it, he will deliver — and deliver in spades.”
– Rob Bozas

Oberlin College (USA)
“Music creates a space of equality and respect. It becomes a place where Israelis and Palestinians can meet without politics getting in the way.”

Times Union (New York State)
“The miracle is that despite not being able to meet enough, WhiteFlag still exists. Each time we meet, we grow closer. Music is what holds us together.”

Creation of Peace Festival (Russia)
“The festival grew from the experience of the band WhiteFlag -bringing together cultures through music in the way they brought together Israelis and Palestinians.”

If you’d like to explore how this way of working might support your own context, whether in music, education, wellbeing, or organisational life, you’re very welcome to get in touch.