Life lessons in music classes

There are so many things that can be learned in a music class.

Not just the obvious, how to play an instrument, but skills that can have a huge effect on how a person lives his/her life.

I started the guitar classes at Drakenstein Maximum because I know that being able to play an instrument can help you through difficult times.  Emotions can be expressed and relieved, confidence can be built up; if you're willing to put in the practice you will improve, whatever your initial innate talent.

Many incarcerated men have a misguided opinion of their abilities. They either think they're not worth anything much (as that's what they've been told most of their lives) or they think they're the bee's knees, the one on top. 

Learning an instrument is a great leveller. It takes work and dedication (channelling Roy Castle on "Record Breakers" and showing my age here). If it's approached full of pride and entitlement it won't necessarily make the sounds demanded. There are very few shortcuts (and so much of crime is about taking shortcuts). These benefits are even before the taking the choice of practice pieces into account. In my classes, though my own musical tastes are wide, the songs I take in to Maximum are about Jesus. They're often chosen according to chords learned or notes available on the ocarina but still give opportunities to discuss what they mean.

There's something about the sessions that brings out the best in the inmates. The more proficient will help the beginners or those struggling. Bridges are crossed, relationships made and another way of living is learned.

In a place of so much darkness, fear, cruelty, selfishness, misery and despair, I thank God for this opportunity for light, joy, sharing, achievement and creativity shine through.