Music, nature and connection
The benefits of embedding music in nature connection with young people.
As we move forward in delivering Nature Beats, it is time to take a look back at what we have achieved post-Summer. Well into half way through our programme, the practice of embedding music more into our activities has been a highlight of progression. Young people are experiencing music as an organic part of the programme, added on to the dedicated music making workshops.
The highlights have been: 1) Integrating music outdoors as a part of a social lunchtime activity Young people on their outdoor days, experience a relaxing and engaging music session while having their lunch around the campfire. "It is the best part of the day - music, food and friends around the camp fire." - Participant 2) Musical energisers as an introductory activity on the indoor days Young people take part in a musical energiser that involves using instruments and making music as an energiser and embedding making beats within in. It sets the tone for the indoor activities and is a creative start to the day. 3) Opening our senses in nature awareness activities have made young people more aware of sounds in general. The process of nature connection and sound recording in nature has been reflected in the tracks that are being developed. 4) Nature connection and music making has been an excellent tool with young people with learning difficulties. Young people have thrived in this programme in their journey. "I love music and singing. It makes me happy and I have felt very happy since I have been on the course. I have made friends and feel like I have achieved a lot in confidence and getting up and speaking in front of others." - Adam
As practitioners, the level of engagement has increased since music has been woven in more in our activities. The staff enjoy performing and playing the guitar, clarinet, fiddle, didgeridoos and more. More local connections are being established with musicians and the young people have experienced a sitar workshop and are looking forward to a suitar and table accompaniment in the forthcoming weeks.
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