Our robust music and performance program has a long history on campus. Participating in music activities provides therapeutic benefits and helps address emotional and social needs.
We offer a variety of effective ways to introduce residents to the powerful language of music. In the classroom, younger children learn about other cultures through music. They play music trivia games to compete for chips, which can be cashed in for gifts and prizes. Older children can receive instruction on guitar and keyboards.
We offer a number of music activities, including:
- Voices of PRIDE. Our choir, active for more than 25 years, is open to all interested residents. Being part of the choir and following through on a commitment to master a particular piece of music boosts self-esteem. Teamwork becomes more than an abstract concept when the choir members hear their voices blended together. Residents learn to appreciate the talents of others and to put their egos aside to be team players.
- Helping Hands. We encourage residents who are hands-on learners to help organize and maintain our instruments.
- Tunes at Noon. Music is meant to be shared! We host monthly musical sessions, put on by residents. These performances are special for the children who perform and for those in the audience. Performers practice new songs they are learning and benefit from an extra dose of self-confidence and validation. Children and teens in the audience enjoy beautiful music and encourage others.
The lessons residents learn through music will stay with them their entire lives. We have heard from grateful former residents all over the country who produce music, sing at their church, and write song lyrics. Our music and performance program is always evolving. We add opportunities with therapeutic value that engage our residents, including dance and poetry.