Superar: Where every child is a superstar

In a world where many children face daunting socio-economic challenges, the chance to realize their full potential often feels out of reach. Yet, amidst these challenges, music has the power to change lives—bridging gaps, breaking down barriers, and opening doors to a brighter future. This is the mission of Superar, an organization committed to empowering children and young people through the transformative power of music.

A high-energy moment at a Superar performance in Bregenz, Austria.

 

At Superar, every child is seen as a superstar, deserving of the same opportunities, regardless of their cultural, religious, linguistic, or economic background. Founded in 2009 by the Wiener Konzerthaus, the Vienna Boys' Choir, and Caritas of the Archdiocese of Vienna, Superar started with a simple yet profound vision: to provide free, high-quality music education to those who might otherwise never have access to it. The organization's philosophy is rooted in the belief that music is not just an art form, but a tool for personal and social development—a way to nurture concentration, creativity, self-confidence, and a sense of responsibility.

Jakob Peböck is the choir conductor of Superar Vorarlberg, and is also active as a soloist singer in the barbershop quartet "Five Gold Rings".

Superar's journey began modestly, supporting 350 children in three elementary schools in Vienna. But the impact of this initiative was undeniable. The joy, confidence, and sense of belonging that music brought to these children sparked a movement that quickly grew beyond Austria’s borders. By 2012, Superar had opened its first international location in Switzerland, and today, it reaches over 3,000 children in seven European countries. 

The growth of Superar has been marked by significant milestones that reflect the deep emotional and cultural impact of its work. In 2015, 80 Superar choir children took to the stage at the Eurovision Song Contest, singing in front of millions of viewers—a moment that symbolized not just the power of music, but the power of giving every child the chance to shine. In the years that followed, Superar continued to expand, with new programs and partnerships that brought music—and the opportunities it creates—to even more young lives.

Superar cooperates with 19 schools in Austria alone.

 

But beyond the numbers and the accolades, the true essence of Superar lies in the stories of the children it touches. These are children who, through music, discover not only their voices but also their potential. They learn that they are capable of great things, that they belong to a community that values them, and that their dreams are worth pursuing. For them, Superar is more than a music program—it is a lifeline, a source of hope, and a foundation for a self-determined future.

As Superar continues to grow, its mission remains steadfast: to use the universal language of music to create a world where every child can thrive. In a time when divisions often seem to outweigh connections, Superar’s work reminds us that music can unite us, heal us, and empower us to build a better future together.

Watch the video below to see how Superar is making a difference in the lives of children through the power of music.

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Each one, teach one. About finding and raising one’s own voice.

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