Therapy Group: Queersong: Music therpay group for queer/trans youth

Music is the ultimate connector for many, and most especially queer and trans youth. Queer and trans artists have made music as a way of capturing their identities, experiences, and in finding kinship and community. In a political climate becoming increasingly more hostile towards queer and trans youth, this group seeks to bring together the healing power of music with the profundity of community in the context of addressing mental health and an opportunity for self-expression and identity formation. Much as the name “music therapy” might imply, this group is the intersection of music-making and healing; of community-building and identity-exploration, facilitated by Maryrose, a queer/trans music therapist.

This will be an 8-week closed group for queer and trans youth (ages 12-17) that will start with a brief (~30 minute) virtual initial intake meeting and culminate in a music showcase performance for family and friends. The group welcomes all music experience levels: come with curiosity and openness, leave with a deepened awareness of the importance of music in your life, greater sense of queer community, and perhaps even an original song. Music creation may take the form of instrument improvisation, group singing of queer anthems, exploration of music-making and embodiment, community building, and songwriting. Participants will have access to various instruments (guitars, keyboards, drums, etc) during groups and are welcome to bring their own.