We’ve been receiving dozens of stories from people coast to coast about the transformative power of music. May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and we are publishing a story every day in May.
Submitted by: Brad Simpson
Music is known as the international language, and it most definitely is. It also has qualities that provide healing at various levels. I can remember loving music and having the drive to play it when I was 3 years old. At the age of 7, my Grandmother gave me the violin she played in her youth. The beauty of the instrument drew me in and I began a number of years of lessons that eventually led me to learn guitar and then a variety of other stringed instruments. After seeing the Beatles on Ed Sullivan, I knew that performing is something I would like to do. Before that would happen, I would have a number of years of education ahead of me. But I took music along with me and it provided me with the calm and grounding I needed as I journeyed along my educational path. I didn't just take it with me, I explored different genres and had the opportunity to jam with a number of friends. Eventually, I found myself in the working world and now working with young children. Once again, music came along with me and I was able to use it to entertain as I assessed and coached the children through movement issues.
Many wonderful moments happen in unexpected circumstances. A few of my buddies were asked to provide some music at a church event and they needed some extra musicians so I was asked if I wanted to join them. A few practice times happened and I was relegated to play bass since nobody else wanted to (Hmmm, I think there was a famous musician who experienced this as well). After the performance, we decided that we all enjoyed it and maybe we should get together and practice some songs and play for people. After a number of practices, we had a small selection of songs and we ventured out. Our goal was to play for fundraising events and for folks who would benefit from having music at their event, but couldn't afford to pay a band. Over the last 20 years, we have played for many events. As much as we give to the community, we really get back much more. A lot of mental health experts tell us that if you want to experience good mental health, just give to others in some way. We can attest to this as we have had the privilege of playing at events where our payment is the smiles on the faces of the people. At one event, a gentleman who has Down Syndrome asked if he could sing "love me Tender''. We quickly figured out the chords and he sang as we played. By the time he finished the song, he was a celebrity among his peers and the joy and camaraderie was evident and we were told it lasted for a number of days.
Music has been the core of my life, a friend who has accompanied me throughout. Not only has it brought me joy, but it has allowed me to connect with a variety of people, all who have enriched my life in return. We are not done and the band, "Menno Valley Sound" will continue to provide music for those who enjoy it. Our pay is not in currency, but in smiles and experiences, all of which are more valuable than money and fame.
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