Music heals

At Providence Row we run numerous courses and activities to support people experiencing homelessness to become independent and reintegrate into the community.

We use music to help them make positive changes in their lives through both weekly workshops and regular performances. Our music class plays a vital role in a person’s recovery. 

Music is a fantastic tool through which to encourage self-expression, giving people a voice as well as building their confidence and self-esteem. 

Our music workshops are all about having fun and building skills in a supportive and creative atmosphere. No musical experience is required and there are no auditions – everyone is welcome. 

Our classes are a true collaboration between our service users, volunteers and teachers. We all co-create every workshop.

In honour of World Music Day (21st June), we thought we’d ask three music-related questions to Alex, our music class facilitator, and *Angel, one of our music class attendees:

What does the music class at Providence Row mean to you?

Angel:
“What I love about the music class is that everyone is welcome. It’s such a fun group and you get the chance to meet new people. Each week we explore such a wide range of musical genres and sing so many different types of songs. It’s just fantastic.”

Alex:
“People who attend really bring a mutual love of music. We have a very collective approach and there’s so much fellowship.” 

“This class is a refuge for people going through difficult times. You can really lose yourself in music. It’s a privilege to facilitate this class.” 

What’s your favourite song?

Angel: 
“This is the way to Providence Row”. It’s a fun but special take on the original “This is the way to Amarillo”. I helped to compose it. It’s so uplifting especially the chorus. I sing it a lot.” 

Alex: 
“A song called “Bad blood” by Bear’s Den. It’s just beautiful. It touches on regret and hurting others. It’s really an apology and it’s a song that resonates with me. I’m actually in one of their music videos.”

What’s life without music? 

Angel:
“There’s nothing in the world like the sound of your favourite song coming on, it just gets right into your head. Music has always been a part of my life. I sang in a choir when I was little.” 

“Music gives me hope and strength. It helps me to interpret situations differently and to reflect on my life.”  

Alex: 
“Life would be empty without music. It’s been a companion and a comfort for so long. Ever since I was little I have always listened to music. I had headphones from a young age.”  

“Music provokes many strong emotions. It’s helped me to get through tough times and allowed me to sing and perform. A song can make an otherwise challenging day suddenly seem like it’s not so bad.”

*Name has been changed to protect the person’s identity.