The October Photo:
MUSIC HAS HEALING POWER
In this image, you can see our boys in Jinja enjoying music class.
Creating Possibilities Through Music
Music has always been part of daily life in the communities where we work. Songs, rhythms, riddles and dance are more than just entertainment. They are a way to teach values, pass on history, solve conflicts, express emotions and prepare children for life.
Traditionally, parents and elders teach music through storytelling, games and instruments made from natural materials. But in many places access to real musical instruments is extremely limited. Guitars, keyboards or drum sets are very expensive and there is no music school close by. Children grow up with passion and talent, yet they have no learning space and no tools to practice.
Building Something That Did Not Exist Before
Our project leaders in Jinja, David and Aidah, kept saying that we could make a real difference if we created a music and dance program for our children. So in 2021 we decided to set up our first music program inside our community center.
We started by buying our first instruments: bass guitar, bow harp, solo guitar, classic guitar, acoustic guitar, drum set, keyboard, microphones and speakers. The excitement was unbelievable. For the first time, children could touch a guitar, feel drum rhythms and sing into a real microphone.
We were lucky to have a music trainer from the USA, Alex Valencia, who helped our local teachers develop the classes. Today, the music sessions run every weekday from 2 PM to 4 PM and they are filled with energy, laughter, focus and creativity.
"When children sing together, they learn that harmony is created, not found."
More Than Just Notes and Songs
Music does something magical to children. It helps them release stress, grow in confidence and stay motivated in school. Learning an instrument teaches patience, teamwork and discipline. Standing together in a choir gives a feeling of belonging and pride.
Right now, we have 3 Ugandan teachers guiding different groups. There are 4 learning groups of 20 children each who receive intensive classes, plus additional groups of 40 children who practice dance and learn music notation. Many children now know the basics of guitar, drums, keyboard and singing.
The Results Are Beautiful
In 2024 alone, our center delivered more than 835 hours of music classes. A total of more than 150 children are now enrolled in music and dance in Jinja. The program is growing and we see the impact clearly in the everyday lives of our students.
What Comes Next
Our music program has been running smoothly for several years and we want to make sure it continues. Every month we cover salaries for 3 music teachers, maintenance of instruments, teaching materials and community space costs.
To keep the program running sustainably we need 250 EURO per month which is 3000 EURO per year. With extra support we would love to expand step by step to Kampala and create a second music center.
You Can Help Us Grow Music Education
Supporting this program means much more than teaching notes and songs. It gives children emotional safety, confidence, joy and skills they can carry into their future. With time, some students will teach others, making the circle even stronger.
If you want to support the music and dance classes, you can donate directly and help us sustain this beautiful learning space.
Together we create harmony, healing and hope through music.
A few more photographs from that day, shot by Serena Martineau
Each month, we will publish a blog post exploring the story behind the featured Charity Calendar photograph, offering insightful commentary and additional images. Check here which months we already posted.