Ali’s project

Singing, Performing, Hope, and Community: My ESC Project at Højskolen Snoghøj

My name is Ali, and I’m from Turkey . I’ve always been passionate about photography, culture, music, and education, and that’s what led me to join the European Solidarity Corps (ESC). Through this program, I got the chance to volunteer at Højskolen Snoghøj, a folk high school in Denmark known for its strong tradition of performing arts and community spirit.

My volunteer work
During my time at Snoghøj, I had many different roles. I documented daily life and performances at the school through photos and videos, managed the school’s social media accounts, and helped create content to reflect the special atmosphere of the school.

I followed rehearsals, classes, and performances—capturing real moments of learning, laughter, and connection. I also interviewed students and staff, trying to understand what makes this place feel like home to so many people. My goal was to show how music, education, and togetherness come together at Snoghøj.

As a volunteer in the European Solidarity Corps (ESC), I’ve had the chance to work on a cultural project that means a lot to me—both personally and artistically. My project is based at Højskolen Snoghøj in Denmark, a folk high school with a strong tradition of community singing and performing arts.

DOCUMENTARY –

One of the main goals of my project was to create a short documentary about this singing culture. I also explored historical sources, old school songbooks, and the school’s archive materials like Snoghøjbogen, where I discovered poems, songs, and writings by past students and teachers. Through this, I could see how the value of hope has always been part of the school’s culture—especially in hard times, like during World War II when the school was occupied by Nazi forces.

A special part of this journey was hearing students talk about the song “Hold Håbet Op” (“Hold Up Hope”) from the Højskolesangbogen. Many described it as one of their favorite songs. Singing it together creates a powerful feeling of connection. This song, along with others, inspired me to explore how music can carry messages of hope, unity, and resilience.

I also studied the song “At vide er at vokse” (“To Know is to Grow”), written for the school’s 100th anniversary. Its message is about learning through life—not just through books, but also through art, movement, and emotion. It shows how education at Snoghøj is a mix of head, heart, and creativity.

Throughout this project, I’ve learned so much—not only about Danish culture and history, but also about how music brings people together. I’ve felt truly welcomed at the school, and I hope that this project helps others see the beauty in singing, storytelling, and community.

This ESC experience has helped me grow, just like the songs say—to know is to grow, and to sing is to hope.

You can watch my documentary from this link : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fUvUvTT08MY

My booklet Design for the Documentary