For the past almost five years now, I have also had the privilege of being a volunteer guitar teacher at the Villawood Immigration Detention Centre in Sydney, having been involved with the refugees there, spending most of every Friday teaching guitar and leading jam sessions in the three sections of the Centre.  I am sure that we all recognise the stress and trauma that people go through being “locked up” in detention, despite not having committed any crime. Music can transcend cultural boundaries, and both making music and listening to it are amazing tool to create joy, peace and harmony. Engaging one’s mind by learning a new skill in the circumstances these people are in, helps them keep their sanity.

HOWEVER, THERE IS ALWAYS A SHORTAGE OF GUITARS (AND OTHER MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS).

WILL YOU HELP ME MAKE A DIFFERENCE?

Can you please have a look whether you would have a guitar or other instrument gathering dust in the attic or in a cupboard, which you might consider donating to the Centre to be used by the clients for the above purpose?  Also, maybe your child’s school has a spare guitar or recorder it would be willing to donate. Percussion instruments are also very welcome.

In case you can help, please send me an email or give me a call, so we can discuss how the instrument will get to Villawood. Depending on your location, we could arrange for pick-up by the Centre, or by myself, or you might be able to drop it off yourself if you are near.