After a generous donation by the Hans Thomann Foundation provided everything necessary, we were able to launch our first sessions in the Condrobs BEW facility in Schweinfurt. We were most happily surprised when we found that practically all important instruments and pieces of equipment had been donated; we had not dared to assume this to be the case! Thus equipped, we went for it. Some participants were left unsure at first, not knowing which of the many instruments available they should choose.

With some, ideas of themselves as “not really being a musical person” also led to feelings of embarrassment. So we launched a series of one-to-one sessions to create an anxiety-free atmosphere for trying everything out. It was apparent from the very beginning that the “nataraj” drum was very popular – its ease of use and the direct and immediate effect it had in performance even in the very first sessions made the participants curious to continue exploring. Other favourites included the cajon drum set, the frame drums, the singing bowls and the small percussion instruments. Thus, it was possible to provide an underlying soundscape – usually with the Harley Benton e-bass – which offered a structure within which participants could overcome their anxiety and really become part of the music. The electric instruments and recording devices will be put to use in the subsequent get-togethers. At the moment, not all musicians are confident that they are “recording-ready”, even though it has been a surprise to many that making music together and even being part of an orchestra is easier than they had anticipated. As soon as all participants in the individual sessions have granted their permission to publish their images and sound recordings and the group is ready to embark on larger gatherings, images and sound recordings will be made available to the general public. Our feedback after the first four meetings included statements such as:

…”proper instruments for once!”

… “I hadn’t thought I would be able to do this.”

… “I’ve never held an instrument in my hands, but still…”

…”This has been the first time in a long while that I have experienced peace of mind and even a feeling of happiness unrelated to consumerism…”

This bears out my initial assumption that music, especially going on a voyage to discover sounds and their own limits, can give people a feeling of accomplishment which allows them to navigate their lives more assuredly and less anxiously. A good example of this was some participants’ wish to base the next sessions on Bobby McFerrin’s “Don’t worry, be happy”.

Overall, the feedback has been roundly positive, and interest and demand both well exceed predicted levels. Thanks to the Hans Thomann Foundation, we have been able to establish a project in extraordinarily short time that connects people culturally and creatively, and that combines the approaches of a therapeutic setting and assisted living as far as possible.

The group sessions will from now on take place every Thursday; individual sessions will be scheduled upon consultation.

Our sincere and cordial thanks go to the Hans Thomann Foundation!

Author:
Ralph Nebl
Special needs educator, music therapist (M.A.int.)

* All participants on the images have agreed to publication.