This Special Issue of Musicae Scientiae focuses on the growing field of music projects that seek to have a positive social impact. Research in this field is gaining significant momentum as musicians across the world are increasingly working on initiatives that feature a strong social dimension (see Sloboda et al., 2020). For example, these musicians are using participatory approaches to music making that facilitate conflict resolution, explore issues of racism, empower women’s human rights and build resiliency in youth (see Hesser & Bartleet, 2020). This burgeoning field of socially engaged practices encompasses projects of international reach, outreach programmes of arts organizations and local grass roots initiatives (see Bartleet & Howell, 2021). Despite the increasing numbers of musicians working in this realm, there are still major gaps in our understanding as to how and when music can operate as a mechanism of social impact. While the field is growing, more systematic research that brings together practitioners, scholars and participants is needed to keep up with the expansion of programs and practices worldwide.