Inclusive Practice - The Hope Creative, Session 3 2016-17

In December’s Hope Creative session there were a couple of important breakthroughs for the group and for my own development as a trainee practitioner.

In terms of the group, a few of the young musicians made good progress on their musical journey. Two of the boys paired up on the keyboard and an experimental improvisation ensued. I helped them explore the sonal possibilities of the keyboard and they then produced a cool sci-fi soundtrack. I guided them both on the value of listening to the other musician and then playing something to complement the other part. This proved to be useful guidance as they started to play in time!

One member of the group had an incredibly creative and emotional session. He was able to channel his emotions into the songwriting process. In just half an hour he wrote the lyrics, melody and even came up with the name for the song and the band. I provided a melancholic chord progression on the guitar whilst J sang and played the keyboard. The lyrics of his song referred to his biological parents and their separation and understandably J was overwhelmed with sadness as he sung. We encouraged him to finish the song and later reflected that it is important not to restrain any creativity and it is undoubtedly important to have an outlet. After all some of the greatest songwriters and composers have channeled heartbreak and loss into their music.

Bob Dylan - Don’t think twice it’s alright

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u-Y3KfJs6T0

During this session I really started to see the aims of the project being realised and it was very rewarding to be a part of it. By creating a safe space and providing the young musicians with a means to express themselves and collaborate we can potentially alter their path toward more positive destinations.