Music can be a great community builder, erasing boundaries and breaking down barriers. You may have already experienced how it can enhance your personal well-being.
If you love music and enjoy sharing that passion with family, friends and others, you’re invited to Music YoUFEST 2019, hosted on March 23 by the Snohomish County Music Project at the Northwest Music Hall inside Everett Mall.
This celebration of the power of music and community is a free, inclusive, family-friendly event filled with workshops that lets you learn to play and tap into your musical creativity, no matter what your age or background.
“Music is such a universal language that it doesn’t have to require a lot of extra training or special education,” says Erica Lee, the Music Project’s program administrator. “You literally don’t have to speak the same language to participate in this event.”
Here’s seven ways to make the most of this day:
- Is drumming your thing? Join in, explore rhythms and learn how to improvise using hand drums
- Hit the right chord Learn the basics of guitar, from one-finger chords to a whole song in a group setting
- Flex your pipes If you enjoy singing, an interactive group singalong will let you try some of your favorite popular songs
- Learn to destress Looking for ways to reduce your tension and help yourself cope with the daily stresses? Board certified music therapists will show you how to combine music and mindfulness as a way to relax
- Movin’ and groovin’ No matter what your age, come and express yourself in whatever way you feel like, through movement to music
- Songwriting 101 Learn how easy it can be to write your own song, with a little help from board certified music therapists. You might even get inspired to join the end-of-day jam on the stage. Bring your own instrument or pick up one that’s supplied.
- Just hang out and enjoy With a scavenger hunt, raffle prizes, community group performances, snacks, music hall tours and a photo booth, you need not play music to have fun!
Music as therapy can benefit all
The Music YoUFEST mix of workshops, its relaxed, accessible atmosphere and the guidance from certified music therapists makes this a safe space to explore how music can boost your state of well-being, Lee says.
Snohomish County Music Project, supported by local musicians and music therapists, works all year helping people with mental health challenges, from veterans struggling with PTSD to people with dementia and children with special needs.
But you needn’t be suffering to find the value in including music in your life, and in attending events like Music YoUFEST, Lee adds. “It isn’t just for people who are dealing with something; music therapy is for everybody.”
Other questions about Music YoUFEST are answered on this FAQ sheet, or you can email events@scmusicproject.org. You can also follow Snohomish County Music Project on Facebook.
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