Local independent music therapist and former record producer Jon Hall has won a charitable grant for an innovative project combining the benefits of sound and spirit for those with mental health challenges who find musical expression helpful.
Trained at the prestigious Nordoff Robbins Centre in Highgate, Jon has worked in Haringey for nearly 10 years with local mental health services and the Clarendon Recovery College. ‘Now clients will be able to combine mind-body-spirit practices with musical help on their creative journey,’ says Jon, ‘thanks to a new partnership with Live and Breathe Yoga’. Breath, movement and mindful awareness are helpful for singing and performing, but more important can support self-efficacy and inner transformation.
Many people have become isolated – even before coronavirus – by challenges affecting their mental, physical and spiritual wellbeing. Sometimes they can find it hard to get the help they want from traditional services – so we are trying to bring an holistic approach, as well as professional music input that meets their aspirations. Clients for this new project will be referred by local professionals.
During lockdown, Jon has had to work exclusively online. ‘Our weekly open mic session has been a great success, and individual clients have found it helpful to have online contact when other services are closed, or if they do not want to leave their homes. We have made some great tracks and videos using Zoom and mobile phones,’ says Jon.
The grant comes from the educational charity, Emergence Foundation.
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