My Voice Music is offering a new and unique program this spring for teens living with chronic and terminal illnesses. This introspective, therapeutic music program uses traditional and non-traditional instruments and methods with a focus on self-reflection. This free, 8-week workshop includes weekly journaling, percussion jams, instrument instruction, songwriting technique, guest musicians, and the opportunity to perform and record original music. Participants will showcase their music in a performance open to the community.

I’m a chronic illness survivor and long-time musician, mentor, activist, and teacher. Previously I’ve taught at Portland non-profits; Ethos Music, Rock n’ Roll Camp for Girls, Youth Music Project, and From the Ground Up before joining My Voice Music. I also worked as a MusicRx Specialist for the Children’s Cancer Association “prescribing joy” through music in the hospitals. I worked with many children living with terminal illnesses, chronic conditions, disabilities, and mental health issues. I’ve personally seen the positive results music can have on patients struggling with disease.

Music is a therapeutic tool, especially for populations coping with adversity. It release emotions in a productive, healthy way giving youth more confidence, self-awareness, and better coping mechanisms to support emotional well-being and overall health. Youth with illness need more than just medicine or traditional methods of healing to prosper in compromised situations. They need access to expressive therapies where they can develop and hone their creative voice in a safe environment. I’d like to use my experiences as a survivor, musician, and mentor to be of service to others struggling with chronic illnesses.

This unique project was funded by a $1,000 “seed grant” from the Pollination Project (www.pollinationproject.org), allowing us to offer this program at absolutely no-cost to participants. This workshop is ideal for teenagers living with illnesses or medical conditions (ages 12-17) who are interested in learning more about music and self-expression, as well as taking their craft to the next level. Please spread the word to anyone who may be interested and qualifies. I look forward to running this pilot program at My Voice Music and seeing how it unfolds.

Sincerely,

Monica Metzler

Article in The Huffington Post:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/ari-nessel/caring-for-the-earth_b_4792763.html?utm_hp_ref=tw

When: Saturdays, May 3rd-June 28th, 12-2 pm

Cost: Free 

Ages: 12-17 years