“We often hear of—and speak of—a certain “power of music.” This power is said to bring communities together, to heal, and to paint meaning through sound onto the confusing canvas of life. The only problem was—for me, at least—I had never fully felt this power. I had searched for it through my own work as an oboist and composer, and I always believed I would find it, but it proved quite evasive. Then came the invitation from Holly to attend an evening of music at Walker State Faith- and Character-Based Prison. I gladly accepted, knowing of Holly’s work in this community and intrigued by the prospect of maybe, just maybe, getting a true glimpse of music’s power. That evening changed my entire life. The men at Walker heard things in that music that I had missed all along, and they named these emotions and experiences in ways that touched my core. They felt, in the most visceral way, the power of music, and in that room, I felt music doing all the things I’ve been searching for. I saw firsthand that music, when intentionally programmed and presented, can truly facilitate communication and healing in a deeply impactful way. I’m so excited to continue to work with Holly and Arts Capacity as we bring music into spaces and to audiences that can be healed and rebuilt by the power of music.”
