Once Calls Music Has The Power To Unite The Nation
JAKARTA - Singer and board of the DPP Association of Singer Artists, Songwriters, and Musicians of the Republic of Indonesia (PAPPRI) Once Mekel stated that music has the power to unite the nation. "Music is reliable for culture, including Indonesian nationalism. In the past music played a role in reviving our nationalism," he said at the National Festival of Nationality in commemoration of National Awakening Day (Harkitnas) at Sebelas Maret University (UNS) Surakarta, Sunday. He said music is the closest art to humans and always has the power to unite across generations. "I have my own theory, DNA is most influential at the age of 17, at least 20 years. Our love for music at that age greatly determines our next taste," continued the former vocalist of Dewa 19, quoting Antara. In addition, according to him, music has extraordinary power to continue to give encouragement. Therefore, he hopes that music can move forward to unite this nation. On the same occasion, the Chancellor of UNS Jamal Wiwoho appreciated the festival's activities. In fact, he hopes that these activities will not only be held on UNS campuses but also other college campuses. "The hope is not only in UNS but this roadshow can also be done outside UNS," he said. He said. The National Festival enlivened by a number of Indonesian musicians is a rare event. Moreover, these activities are held on campus. "At least in the campus world, mixed with musicians, singers to combine the spirit of national movement," he said.