We work as a team of three independent music leaders who deliver sessions together, with an interconnected approach.
As musicians our job is to scaffold the music in the group whilst waiting our turn to lead - it's interesting switching from leading to modelling and support, whilst our colleagues interpret the plans we make together. This gives you a real sense of how effective the music leading is, too.
When we were planning for 'Joining In' training this Saturday, we started with the premise that we bring three different approaches to the whole.
The day was about approaches to 'musical inclusion'.
Obviously between us, we have a range of expertise. To keep things clear we focused on the AllStars 'musical inclusion' approaches:
- Alex, as a music therapist, spoke about the personal outcomes, the process-based approach;
- Russ, as a musician, spoke about musical outcomes, and enabling everyone to be included in a musical process;
- Jane, as a community music leader, spoke about social outcomes, participation and communication.
It worked! - we managed to re-affirm and support each others' work, whilst describing our broad and cohesive approach.
Just through putting this together, we learned a lot through reflection and sharing.
A great experience.
Some feedback:
'fundamental, free, expressive, understandable'
'Inspiring and eye opening'
'It made me realise what a variety of things music does and has taught me not to be so regimented with music.'
'Makes you think outside the box.'
'Amazing, I learned a lot. I learned, what is music.'
'Life affirming - opened my eyes to a different type of 'work.''
