True to tradition, Song Circus has performed quiet improvisation concerts at institutions for addiction care and psychiatry. Each concert is different. I can get completely absorbed in artistic projects and beautiful music, but the human connections this project offers are unique. It’s an experience of touching something far greater than both the music and ourselves.
st circled around the chair in the room. His body and mind were working overtime as he tried to settle in. His leg and foot shook restlessly. The music began, and the minutes passed. Some closed their eyes, some looked at each other, one person held a hand. A little while into the concert, the foot had stilled. The restlessness was gone, at least for a moment.
Here are some moments I’d like to share:
He wasn’t fully present where he sat. His eyes fluttered as he gently rocked to the music. We reached the final song, and for a brief moment, he forgot himself: ‘Oh, if only we were there! If only we were there,’ he mumbled softly before waking up, a bit unsure and embarrassed. The glances and smiles that met him showed that he was among friends who wished him well, who wanted him to enjoy the experience.
‘Come to me every morning, and I promise I’ll quit valium,’ he said with a smile.
He almost circled around the chair in the room. His body and mind were working overtime as he tried to settle in. Once seated, his leg and foot shook restlessly, and I thought it must be exhausting. We began the music, and the minutes passed. Some people closed their eyes, some looked at each other, one person held their therapist’s hand. A little while into the concert, I noticed that his leg and foot had stilled. The restlessness was gone, at least for a moment.
‘Thank you for being here and letting us experience this together. It’s so quiet here, everything moves so slowly, so controlled, and I’m alone so much, but inside, there’s always noise and turmoil. I really needed this. I feel completely calm now. It feels good.’
It’s a beautiful room. I think about how lucky they are to be here and have access to this space. The chaplain has a good relationship with the men, and they feel safe together. It’s different here. And because it’s such a good place to be, this concert becomes something special. A calm concentration fills the room. It feels like we are one body, one breath. The music develops, we singers dare to take risks, and it becomes one of those truly special musical performances. When it’s over, we’re left with the feeling of having been part of something extraordinary. And gratitude. Afterwards, we’re invited to join a research project. They want to collaborate with us over time.
‘He almo
