Springfield Sister Cities Association selected local musician Molly Healey to serve as an ambassador and featured performer in Springfield’s sister city of Isesaki, Japan this September. In this prestigious position, Healey will visit multiple Japanese cities, stay with an Isesaki family, attend official ceremonies and perform at Isesaki’s annual city-wide festival.
“Molly embodies the spirit of cultural exchange and artistic collaboration that is at the heart of our mission,” states Sister Cities executive director Lisa Bakerink. “Her performance at Isesaki’s city festival is not just a showcase of her musical talent but also a bridge between communities, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation across borders. We’re confident that Molly’s music will resonate with the people of Isesaki and continue the tradition of peace through people.”
Sister Cities funds a portion of Healey’s trip costs and helps fundraise the remaining expenses. Healey will host her first concert fundraiser on Friday, August 9 at 7 p.m. at Tie and Timber, 1451 E. Cherry St., Springfield. Admission is $5 and all tips and donations will benefit Healey’s trip to Japan. Donors can make tax-deductible contributions at peacethroughpeople.org/molly.
As a longtime fiddle player for the Ozark Mountain Daredevils, Healey began her solo career in 2015 after buying a simple looping pedal. She morphed into a powerhouse experimental songwriter, playing a variety of instruments including cello, violin, guitar and piano while experimenting with other sounds looping in Ableton Live.
She continues to play violin for The Ozark Mountain Daredevils, The Lacewings and The Kay Brothers, and she frequently does session work for bands across the state. Healey is also the co-organizer of Earth Day: The Festival, an annual music festival that raises funds for local environmental organizations.
Sister Cities selects a local musical group to perform at Isesaki’s city festival each year. It is a great opportunity to share Ozarks music with an international audience and to strengthen the friendship between Springfield and Isesaki. Most recently, Dallas Jones completed his tour in September 2023.
For more information or to make a donation, please visit peacethroughpeople.org/molly.
