NZ Music Month in May is a time to celebrate the important role music plays in the cultural life of Aotearoa/New Zealand, and the positive impact it can have on wellbeing, identity, and connection. By Artist Liaison Merrin Cavel.
At Toi Ora, music is far more than entertainment. Through its creative arts programmes, participants come together each week to share their love of singing, playing instruments, and sound recording in a welcoming and supportive environment.
The artists who attend these groups are united by their passion for music and the joy they clearly derive from performing and creating together. Many participants have been attending for years, a testament to the sense of belonging, confidence, and wellbeing they gain through sharing music with others.
Locally written and performed music is a vital part of the artistic culture and fabric of New Zealand. It speaks to our unique voice and place in the world and provides a window into our identity internationally.
One of our music tutors, Paul is a songwriter with more than 50 original works registered with APRA and agents in the United States and Europe, Paul is proud to know his music is shared and listened to on a global stage. Equally meaningful, however, is seeing firsthand the powerful effect music can have within our own communities.
There is considerable anecdotal evidence supporting the beneficial impact that participating in music can have for people experiencing mental health distress, whether through groups such as Toi Ora, community choirs, or specialist music therapy programmes. As a professional singer involved in the music industry at several levels, Paul can personally attest to the feelings of wellbeing generated through the power of voice, creativity, and performance.
For many people, these benefits come not only through performing, but also simply through listening and being part of a shared musical experience.
One person who knows the value of this connection well is Ricky, who has been attending both the Acoustic Guitar and Music class and the Singing and Music group for the past two years.
A talented guitarist, Ricky enjoys being part of the group environment and says he learns a great deal from both the tutors and fellow musicians around him while hoping they gain something from him as well. He believes people with lived experience have a great deal to contribute creatively, particularly through music because of its emotional depth and honesty.
One of Rikki’s favourite instruments to play is his 12 string guitar, and he loves plugging in the amp at home for a proper jam session. Music has become an important creative outlet for him, and he hopes that one day he will find three like-minded musicians to form a band and begin performing live gigs.
While he feels that goal may still be a little way off, he is excited about what the future could hold.
Ricky’s musical influences include The Rolling Stones, Eagles, and Santana. He is also inspired by Crowded House and feels his slow rock guitar style would fit naturally alongside their sound.
Although Ricky has not yet written his own original songs, he hopes to begin recording cover versions in the future. He also believes there should be more opportunities for people with lived experience of mental illness to have their voices, talents, and creativity showcased and celebrated.
This NZ Music Month, stories like Ricky’s remind us that music is not only an artform it is also a source of connection, expression, healing, and hope.
