Music Diplomacy and Network Effects: Strategies for Amplifying Influence

In the latest issue of CPD Perspectives on Public Diplomacy, Jen McAndrew explores how music exchanges can build lasting networks and influence. In Music Diplomacy and Network Effects: Strategies for Amplifying Influence, McAndrew argues that cultural exchanges should be viewed not as one-time programs, but as investments in relationships that can continue producing value for years. Drawing on network theory and U.S. initiatives including Center Stage, OneBeat and Sound Bridge, she examines how different network structures can advance goals such as peacebuilding, civic engagement and creative industry development. McAndrew also offers a framework for measuring long-term impact through connectivity, collaboration, influence, and network expansion. The Perspective was guest edited by Professor Nicholas Cull, a CPD Faculty Fellow. 

McAndrew is Senior Director of Events at Berklee College of Music and a former U.S. Foreign Service Officer who spent 17 years leading strategic communications, public diplomacy and international exchange programs. Her diplomatic postings included U.S. Embassies in Armenia, Ireland, Pakistan and Israel, as well as the Washington Foreign Press Center, and she taught cultural diplomacy tradecraft at the Foreign Service Institute.

Download the full text here.