Hutchinson Correctional Facility
Interactive Concerts
Since 2022, our interactive concerts at Hutchinson Correctional Facility (HCF) have been warmly embraced by both residents and staff. What began as an event for 150 residents has quickly become a highly anticipated program, with capacity reached for each concert. For those unable to join in person, a recording or live stream goes directly to their cells, ensuring everyone has access to these transformative experiences.
A unique and engaging feature of these concerts is the inclusion of improv sessions with composers, where new works are crafted on the spot with the residents. Residents also actively participate by sharing their thoughts, emotions, and even creating meaningful stories inspired by the music they hear. This collaborative approach fosters deeper connections, enhances emotional intelligence, and promotes pro-social behavior, contributing to a calmer and more positive atmosphere within the facility.
Our commitment to supporting contemporary artists is evident in the selection of works by living American composers, enriching the musical experience with a diverse and dynamic repertoire. This not only provides residents with a rich cultural experience but also supports the work of current composers.
To measure the impact of our concerts, we collect participant surveys that track key indicators such as emotional well-being and stress levels. The data gathered helps us continuously refine our programs, ensuring they effectively contribute to a positive environment at HCF.
The success of these concerts has sparked a new initiative: a resident chorus. In the Fall of 2024, this chorus became a reality, offering yet another avenue for creative expression and community building.
Our interactive concerts at HCF demonstrate the transformative power of music, fostering growth, connection, and community for everyone involved. We remain committed to bringing the benefits of music to underserved populations, creating opportunities for enrichment and personal development.
Hutchinson Correctional Facility Chorus
Arts Capacity is excited to launch a new chorus at Hutchinson Correctional Facility, led by experienced musicians Katelyn Mattson and Dorothy Crum. This initiative invites residents from diverse backgrounds and varying musical abilities to come together in the transformative experience of creating music. Whether learning to read music for the first time or drawing on past choral experiences, participants will build connections and engage in pro-social behavior through collaborative singing.
As we establish this chorus, Arts Capacity is committed to exploring opportunities for songwriting and introducing a variety of musical genres, ensuring that the repertoire is as diverse as the voices involved. This program not only nurtures artistic expression but also fosters a sense of community and belonging among the residents, contributing to a more positive and supportive environment within the facility.
Arts Capacity Instructors
Composer Collaborations
Arts Capacity programs showcase works by living American composers, offering contemporary musical experiences that inspire creativity. Arts Capacity is honored to have collaborated with the following living artists at Hutchinson Correctional Facility.
- Chad Cannon
- Peter Golub
- Tim Hinck
- Susan Mayo
- Lucas Richman
- Steven Sérpas
- Del’Shawn Taylor
- P. Kellach Waddle
Testimonials
“I was struggling mentally and emotional for the last couple of weeks but this opportunity to hear classical music helped me a lot to carry on and make it through another day. Thank you all and have safe and blessed day.”
“Thank you for letting us know we still matter + are still part of the normal world + capable of enjoying something from the world outside of here!”
“I would like to experience more of these types of events. I have come to appreciate classical music more. I actually like it. Never really listened to it much.”
“I’m glad to have been apart of all this music, it took me back to my childhood watching and listening to classical with my Uncle Butch.”
“Mere words cannot express the magnitude of this impactful performance and the realm of possibilities. This is a definite step in the right direction for all of us. Inside and out irrespective of the uniforms we wear. Collaboration. Thank you. Sincerely. “
“This was something new to me, but it was a beautiful experience that gave me the ability to search a part of my mind that I wasn’t use to. It really opened me up and gave me goose bumps. Thank you for the experience.”
“The symphony pieces had a calming affect on me. They made me feel peaceful.”
“Music is really healthy in this place, please keep coming back, thanks for your time”
- March 27, 2023
- November 8, 2023
- January 18, 2024
- March 20, 2024
