The Power of Connection: An Exploration of Trauma-Informed Community Music Practice

Working with trauma-informed community music practice, the singing and song-writing part of a UK-based University Prison Partnership Project, aims to give opportunity for self-expression, create a sense of community and a safe space, and build positive connections through mutual trust and negotiation of the creative process. The project works exclusively with women who have experienced trauma, engaging them in developing skills in both vocal technique and song-writing. In order to effectively facilitate in a gender-responsive way, there is an obligation to align the work with the five values of trauma-informed practice: safety, trustworthiness, collaboration, empowerment, choice. This presentation examines the model of practice used in the singing and songwriting project and will unpack facilitation methods sensitive to the women’s many complex emotional and mental health needs. Specific workshop elements are demonstrated that enable positive connections to form between participants, as well as a deeper connection to self. In a space where profound social barriers exist, the approaches to practice that enable both inclusion and diversity are examined with opportunity for wider reflection and discussion