When there are no words, there is music. In the aftermath of traumatic events — such as natural disasters, terrorism, or mass shootings — music helps convey emotions that are often difficult to express through speech.

In these times of tragedy and sadness, the music and arts community can and often does play a large role in healing, even for those not directly affected.

Sawyer Garrity and Andrea Peña, members of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Drama Club, wrote a beautiful piece called “Shine” in the wake of the loss of 17 students and staff in a mass shooting at their high school in Parkland, Florida, on February 14. They performed the song live on CNN on Wednesday night.

Even when not moved to write original music or lyrics, musicians turn to timeless songs of hope to bring comfort to those who are hurting.

From big stages like the Grammys:

To the local news:

It’s not always professionals, or even musicians, who take part. Music for healing makes no judgement on skill:

When nothing else helps, music is here to nourish the soul — and it's a reason why so many musicians continue to create.