Home / Education / School program turns trauma into hip-hop beats
School program turns trauma into hip-hop beats
31 Jan
Summary
- Students express trauma through writing and recording original music.
- Program helps young people process grief, family conflict, and mental health.
- Music industry professionals support students in recording sessions.
Holy Trinity Catholic School has launched an innovative music program called "Hip-Hop Healing" to assist students in processing trauma. The initiative, spearheaded by art teacher James Bennett, enables young individuals to articulate their personal experiences and challenges through songwriting and performance.
The program offers a unique avenue for students to channel their emotions related to grief, family conflict, and mental health into original music. Participants write and record their own songs in a professional studio environment, receiving support from educators and seasoned music industry professionals.
Students like 14-year-old Sam found that rapping provided a vital outlet for expressing feelings he found difficult to voice directly, helping him cope with the loss of his mother. Fourteen-year-old Rozaana also shared that singing allows her to articulate her thoughts and problems, offering a way to express herself when words fail.
Twelve-year-old Kade reported that the program aids his mental health and helps soothe his nerves, viewing music as a means to gain control and express difficult topics. The project aims to integrate hip-hop elements into the curriculum, with plans for an album focused on adolescent mental health challenges.
Music video director Rico and Birmingham-based grime artists Trappy Self Success and T.roadz have lent their expertise, contributing to the program's mission of supporting the next generation. They emphasize the importance of pursuing ambitions in the music industry, encouraging aspiring artists to follow their passion.
