Self-Expression

We aim to establish safe, welcoming spaces that encourage students to create and interact with music in any form that resonates with them. By providing the tools and facilitation necessary, students can learn a new language to express themselves through.

Authenticity

We encourage all students to be unapologetically themselves and be true to their artistic ideas. Facilitators meet students where they are mentally and emotionally on a session-to-session basis, guiding students down a pathway of musical growth at their own individual paces.

Empathy

We practice compassion, understanding, and respect for each other and the music we create. We recognize that individuals affected by incarceration often carry trauma that we, as facilitators, cannot understand. Instead, we strive to be educated allies, following these principles from the Guide to Allyship:

1. Take on the struggle as your own.

2. Transfer the benefits of your privilege to those who lack it.

3. Amplify voices of the oppressed before your own.

4. Acknowledge that even though you feel pain, the conversation is not about you.

5. Stand up, even when you feel scared.

6. Own your mistakes and de-center yourself.

7. Understand that your education is up to you and no one else.

Community

We recognize that individuals who have been incarcerated are often marginalized by their communities. Through collaboration and teamwork between students, teacher volunteers, and community mentors, we support the development of trusting relationships inside facilities and beyond.

Healing

We believe one path to reducing recidivism exists through programming that brings students and communities together to create. Music can provide opportunities for reflection, escape, processing emotions, and narrative sharing, leading to self-discovery and enhanced quality of life.