Melodic Connections musicians gain on-the-job skills through CSO partnership

Three musicians from Melodic Connections are participating in a pilot program with the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra in which they'll volunteer once a week in the CSO offices at Music Hall to gain job readiness and social skills.
 
Melodic Connections aims to empower and build self-confidence in individuals with disabilities by providing music therapy and opportunities for lessons, group instruction and performance. The organization was recently a finalist in Cincinnati Social Venture Partners' 2015 Fast Pitch competition for local nonprofits.
 
“Volunteers will organize marketing materials and re-stock brochures around the offices, restock CDs in the gift shop, distribute materials to staff members, reset stanchions at the box office, greet visitors, and help with the preparation of mailings,” says Lynn Migliara, Melodic Connections’ communications manager.
 
While at Music Hall, the three will also have the opportunity to go behind the scenes, meet and interact with musicians and listen in on rehearsals.
 
For individuals like Joseph, one of the pilot program participants, it’s a chance to immerse himself even more fully in music.
 
Prior to finding out about Melodic Connections, Joseph spent most of his time alone in his apartment, socializing little and yearning for a more fulfilling day-to-day existence. But he’s now rediscovered a high school passion and talent: drums. In addition to making friends, performing for the public and attending weekly classes, half of each Monday will now be spent in an environment that should foster his growth even further.
 
"The opportunity for our students to volunteer at Music Hall for the symphony orchestra allows them to work on job-readiness skills and be integrated into the community,” says Christina McCracken, Melodic Connections’ board certified music therapist. “The students are already expressing a sense of pride and responsibility in their work for the symphony."

Do Good: 

•    Support Melodic Connections by donating.

•    If you have musical talent, other skills or just want to show your support, sign up to volunteer with Melodic Connections.

•    Connect with Melodic Connections on Facebook.