Chords for Change uses methods commonly found in the practice of music therapy as the driving force behind our goal of improving the quality of life for those we serve.  Below is a brief outline of our most commonly used techniques.  It should be noted that the actual implementation of everything we do, is always tailored to the unique personalities and needs of the group participants.  Ultimately when helping people, it is always important to meet them where they are – not where you wish they were, or think they should be.   After 27 years of serving the disadvantaged, our music therapist Jamie has the expertise to know when to use to these techniques and how to modify them if need be.

Singing

• A source of empowerment
• Provides an avenue for self-expression and emotional release
• Improves communication
• Enhances mood
• Group singing of traditional songs, as well as the original music the group writes.
• The music therapist or visiting musician plays the piano or guitar accompaniment for the songs

Song Writing

• Provides a means of self expression and self discovery.
• The women change the lyrics to a known song.  This provides structure to the song writing experience.
• The women change a specific words from known songs.  This is an easier way to facilitate song writing.
• Music therapist works with the group to create an original song.  Often each participant writes a sentence around a particular theme.

Guided Relaxation

• Reduces stress and anxiety
• Improve coping strategies and enhance mood.
• Participants listen to music specifically selected by the music therapist
• The music therapist works to decrease distractions in the room, as well as provides the participants with specific relaxation techniques
• Music coupled with a slowed breathing pattern and other relaxation techniques has been proven to decrease the human anxiety response
• Helps participants find an increased inner awareness

Percussion

• Builds non-verbal communication and expression of emotion
• Increases sense of community
• Rhythm is very grounding, and provides a sense of structure and control in life even when it seems to be in disarray
• We provide many different styles and sizes of percussion instruments

Instrumentation

• Participants have the option to learn an instrument with an experienced teacher
• Allows participants to play an instrument they already know, yet may not longer have access to
• Helps participants express feelings that are inexpressible through words

Live Performances

• We bring in musicians to give live performances at the shelter
• Brings beauty into the lives of those in the shelter
• Decreases stress and anxiety
• Provides motivation and elevates mood

Group Settings

• Allow the participants to receive support from their peers, immediate positive feedback and self validation
• Provide the participants to interact with others, who may be at different stages in the process of getting their lives back
• Leads to increased self-esteem through accomplishment and affirmation