"Coming to Taiwan is an important first step in sending a message of building community through music," said Pearl's musician friend, Todd Mack, founder of the Friends of Daniel Pearl Festival (FODfest) in a press conference held at the American Institute in Taiwan on Thursday.

Recalling that day of Pearl's death as "the darkest moment" of his life, Mack said that he knew he had to do something to keep the memory of his friend alive.

"I knew Danny as a friend and a band mate who believes that music, like journalism, is a vehicle for bridging gaps between people," said Mack.

Pearl believed that music can bring people together, thus after Pearl's death, Mack and his musician friends came together to launch World Music Day under Pearl's name.

By hosting annual international concerts, the group intends to promote cross cultural understanding, overcome cultural and religious hatred, and encourage responsible and creative journalism while enriching people's lives through music.

FODfest works side by side with the Daniel Pearl Foundation, which was formed by Pearl's family and friends, to continue Pearl's mission and to address what they consider the root causes of his death, in the spirit, style, and principles that shaped Pearl's work and character.

Now in its fifth year, FODfest has grown considerably from its humble start in Mack's backyard.

The 2009 tour includes a 32 day tour across the United States and Taiwan.

Their visit to Taipei marks FODfest's international debut, with a full cast of dedicated musicians and friends who will be performing together with local counterparts to promote unity and peace through music.
 
Written by Joseph Yeh / culture.tw