Ice breakers and Energisers

Music is a fantastic tool to re-energise and re-invigorate a group, form a group dynamic and work collectively to produce something new.

The first week of a new cohort is a daunting one - both for the participants and faciliators. Any practictioner will know that no two groups are the same. It doesn't matter how many courses you have delivered, while the structure and content is planned, the style of delivery is always unique to the needs of the group. This week has been the first week of Course 8. New people, new issues and new catalysts. While picking up an instrument from an interesting looking and inviting basket is a simple action, it also speaks volumes of courage to do so in front of people you don't know and an activity that you have never participated in before.

The apprehension melts away when you follow the instruction and start playing your instrument and before you know it, the awkwardness melts away and you are performing in unison, using your sensory awareness to be in tune with each other. Music is a beautiful tool to integrate young people and make achievement happen - individually and as a group. The smiles at the end of the energiser say it all.

The relationship with music for many of the young people we have worked with has been of that of consumption. When that turns into active involvement and participation, the relationship becomes more accessible, personal and unique to each person. The feedback from the end of Week 1 has been -  "Excited!" "Positive..." "Creative and Energetic" "Made music and made new friends" "Feel more confident"

And who said change can't happen in a day? We are grateful to the young people for taking that little but momentous step to try something new, overcome their social anxiety and step into their own journey of change. Over the next six weeks, this will be more visible with purposes turning into goals and actions, confidence emboldening and the pathways becoming more musical, creative and enjoyable as we go along.