When it comes to the empowerment of individuals experiencing mental-health issues, music has proven to offer many benefits

Having worked together throughout Covid lockdowns, Community Music Wales has once again teamed up with Ty Canna, Hergest Unit Ysbyty Gwynedd and Hafod Community Mental Health Team for a new project called, Calonnau Cerddorol.

Following consultation with service-users and funded by the Arts Council of Wales’ Mental Health and Wellbeing Program, Calonnau Cerddorol will investigate the use of music in the process of recovery through performance, songwriting, and collaboration.

Providing workshops, one-to-one support and activities for people experiencing mental health issues, it aims to increase people’s confidence; help them set positive and achievable goals and develop wider community cohesion.

The project will also expand boundaries and safe spaces by encouraging participants to build strong relationships, work together to create and perform songs about personal issues, produce performances for the elderly in their local area, and record their own music.

One service-user said after last year’s pilot sessions: “I love feeling part of a group, plus the singing makes me feel that I can do something which helps my confidence. Singing in a group is very therapeutic. I always feel better afterwards.”

Feedback was positive across the board and staff saw regular weekly attendances swell, which is something of a rarity amongst service-users with chaotic lives amid a time of national crisis.

“The workshops were so successful, the team at Ty Canna initially extended the project using their own funds,” said CMW director, Hannah Jenkins.

“Now, it really is amazing that we have since secured funding to make the project more long-term. It’s something participants can depend upon week after week, and it will help nurture them creatively and support them in reaching their potential.”