My Testimony as Chapter President- Rebecca Song

Hi, my name is Rebecca, and I am the President of Healing with Music Herricks. In the summer of 2024, I began looking for a way to start a music outreach program. I have been a member of TRI-M, and through that experience, I've always been encouraged to use music beyond performance. Creating a music outreach program was something I had been looking forward to from the beginning, and I knew I wanted to combine my passion for music with service to the community.

As I explored the idea of creating my own organization, I realized that many of the options at the time weren't feasible. I didn't have the time or resources to build something entirely from scratch, but I also wanted to be part of a legitimate program.

While talking to a friend about this, everything aligned unexpectedly. She knew someone from a Healing with Music chapter who mentioned that the organization was always looking to expand. Through that connection, I was introduced to the founder, Katelyn. After meeting with her, I realized that Healing with Music was exactly what I needed: an organization that allowed me to serve the community while still being manageable within my schedule. It gave me the opportunity to carry out the outreach I had always envisioned.

Starting the chapter was an incredibly exciting experience. From creating a board to developing events, every step felt meaningful in knowing that each action brought me closer to my goal. In the beginning, I had to make many phone calls to nursing homes, which pushed me out of my comfort zone. While challenging, it became an exciting process that taught me valuable lessons about tenacity and perseverance.

Our first nursing home event was both nerve-wracking and deeply rewarding. The residents asked questions about the instruments, requested specific songs, and clapped along to music they recognized.Seeing their engagement reaffirmed why I started this chapter in the first place.

Our next event was a Christmas-themed performance, which brought an extra sense of warmth and festivity to the holidays. Playing classic songs while residents danced and sang along was another powerful reminder of the impact music can have.

As we continue to have events, it's been a joy to meet different residents and interact with them. None of this would have been possible without my team. They continuously supported me by sharing their musical talents, inviting friends to perform, providing professional camera work for events, and always showing up when it mattered.

Although our membership isn't always consistent and it can sometimes be challenging to gather enough people for events, every successful performance is incredibly fulfilling. Through this experience, I've learned so much about leadership, persistence, and real-world communication while planning and coordinating outreach.

Healing with Music Herricks has been a truly meaningful experience for me. As I prepare to graduate, I'm grateful to know that there are passionate individuals who can continue this chapter and carry its mission forward. I hope more people will join not only the Herricks chapter specifically but the organization in general and continue using music to heal and connect with others.