LeBAM's History

Founded in 2008, the Lebanese Band Association for the Promotion of Music - LeBAM emerged from a vision to foster musical education and band culture in Lebanon. The organization was established by Ghassan Moukheiber, alongside the late Ghassan Tueini (renowned journalist and diplomat) and the late Dr. Walid Gholmieh (composer and President of the National Higher Music Conservatoire). Their shared belief in the transformative power of music laid the foundation for LeBAM’s national and community-level music education initiatives.

LeBAM's journey began with the establishment of its first branch in Beit Mery in the fall of 2007. This was soon followed by the openings of branches in Baskinta (2008) and Baakline (2011), each aimed at bringing LeBAM’s unique blend of free instrumental education and community band culture to diverse regions of Lebanon. These branches serve as vital hubs for students, enabling them to learn wind and percussion instruments, participate in orchestras, and perform at local and national events.

Since its inception, LeBAM has organized numerous concerts, music camps, and international collaborations, including the International Summer Band Camp (ISBC), which has become a significant event in the Lebanese music calendar. The ISBC not only provides students with valuable training and exposure to international music educators but also facilitates cultural exchange and networking among aspiring musicians.

In 2014, LeBAM expanded its outreach with the establishment of the Solo and Ensemble Contest (SEC), designed to encourage soloists and small groups to showcase their talents. This event has since attracted participation from both local and regional musicians, enhancing LeBAM's reputation as a leading platform for musical expression in the Middle East.

A cornerstone of LeBAM's mission is its commitment to accessibility in music education. To this end, LeBAM provides free instruments to its students, making it possible for individuals from all socioeconomic backgrounds to engage with music. This initiative has empowered hundreds of students, fostering a love for music that transcends barriers.

In collaboration with the Lebanese Ministry of Education and the Lebanese Center for Educational Research and Development (CERD), LeBAM is also actively involved in promoting the mandatory teaching of music in public schools. This partnership aims to develop pedagogical tools and teaching methods, ensuring that music education becomes an integral part of the curriculum. Through pilot programs in select schools, LeBAM is working to train teachers and implement innovative teaching strategies, ultimately benefiting thousands of students across Lebanon.

As LeBAM continues to grow, it remains dedicated to its core values of inclusivity, community engagement, and artistic excellence. The organization has formed strategic partnerships with various Lebanese music schools, local municipalities, and community organizations to expand its reach and enhance its programs. These collaborations have enabled LeBAM to organize workshops, masterclasses, and joint performances, further enriching the musical landscape of Lebanon.

Looking ahead, LeBAM aims to establish additional branches throughout Lebanon, particularly in rural areas, to ensure that the benefits of music education are accessible to all communities. The organization envisions a future where every child in Lebanon has the opportunity to discover and develop their musical talents, fostering a vibrant cultural scene that contributes to the nation’s social and artistic fabric.

From its humble beginnings, LeBAM has grown into a pivotal force in Lebanon's musical landscape, driven by a passion for music education and community empowerment. As it celebrates its achievements and looks to the future, LeBAM remains committed to nurturing the next generation of Lebanese musicians, fostering a sense of pride and unity through the power of music.