Gaza children turn to music for solace amid war and displacement

Inside a classroom in Gaza, young Palestinian children assemble daily to sing and play musical instruments to seek a rare respite from the ongoing conflict around them.

Undeterred by the war, the Edward Said National Conservatory of Music continues to bring non-stop music education and psychological support to children in parts of the Gaza Strip.

"Our first goal is to take these children away from the atmosphere of war and change their surroundings so they can experience joy," said Fouad Khader, a music instructor leading the sessions.

"Music helps them feel safe and encourages them to play together as a group." Months of conflict and displacement have severely disrupted formal education and daily life for Gaza's youth.

Aid organizations have repeatedly warned of the deep psychological trauma inflicted on children in the enclave due to severe hardship, hunger, and loss of security.

For young participants, the music tent offers a vital outlet for self-expression.

"I came here to develop myself and improve my singing," said Sara al-Salmi, a displaced child attending the vocal classes.

"Enough of this war.

We want to live like other children around the world, without displacement, suffering or war." Nearby, Ghazal Abu Jibba draws a bow across her violin alongside other young musicians in a makeshift tent.

"We really liked the idea of taking part here, and we now come every day because it makes us feel better," Ghazal said.

"We want the war to end so that we can live in peace and safety." For Gaza’s children, music is more than a brief escape from the realities of war.

It has become a vital form of psychological support, helping them rediscover moments of joy and slowly begin to heal.