What is the Shoulder to Shoulder Veterans Music Program?

July 14, 2024

A Commitment to Respect and Honor

As first-generation Americans, my brother and I were raised to cherish and respect the freedoms of this country and to honor those who fight for it. While on tour, we have met many veterans and had the honor of performing at several military bases, including 29 Palms, Nellis Air Force Base, and Fort Carson. Through these experiences, we discovered a deep connection between veterans and music, which inspired us to create a program that could harness the power of music for healing and connection.

What is the Shoulder to Shoulder Veterans Program?

The Shoulder to Shoulder Veterans Music Program is designed for veterans who want to explore guitar playing, songwriting, and musical collaboration. This program provides veterans with tools, guidance and support in order to express themselves creatively and connect with others through music. It is structured to guide participants through the basics of guitar playing, the intricacies of songwriting, and the joys of collaborating with fellow musicians.

Who is the Program For?

This program is open and free to all veterans, regardless of their musical background or experience. Whether a veteran has never picked up a guitar before or has some musical knowledge, the course is tailored to meet them at their level and help them grow. The program aims to reach veterans who:

  • Have a passion for music, but lack the confidence or skills to pursue it.
  • Are looking for a creative outlet to express their experiences and emotions.
  • Want to connect with other veterans through a shared interest in music.

What Problem Does the Program Solve?

Many veterans struggle with feelings of isolation, anxiety, and the lingering effects of trauma. The Shoulder to Shoulder Veterans Music Program addresses these challenges by offering a unique, music-based approach to healing and community building. By providing a space where veterans can learn, create, and share music, the program helps to:

  • Combat Isolation: Music brings people together. The collaborative nature of the course fosters a sense of community and belonging among participants.
  • Reduce Anxiety and Stress: Learning and playing music has been shown to have therapeutic effects, reducing stress and promoting relaxation.
  • Express Emotions: Songwriting provides a powerful outlet for veterans to express their experiences and emotions in a constructive way.

How Does the Program Help?

This program offers a structured yet flexible environment where veterans can explore their musical interests and develop new skills. Here’s how the program helps participants:

  1. Learn Guitar Basics: Veterans start with the fundamentals of guitar playing, gaining the skills needed to play and enjoy music. The course covers essential techniques and encourages practice to build confidence and proficiency.
  2. Explore Songwriting: Participants learn how to write their own songs, expressing their thoughts and experiences through lyrics and melodies. Songwriting sessions are designed to inspire creativity and provide practical tools for composing music.
  3. Collaborate with Others: The course emphasizes the importance of collaboration, helping veterans build connections with their peers through shared musical experiences. Group activities and projects foster teamwork and mutual support.
  4. Enjoy a Supportive Environment: The program provides a supportive and understanding community where veterans can share their musical journey with others who have similar backgrounds and experiences. This sense of camaraderie is crucial for personal growth and healing.

A Successful Start and Future Plans

Our first course, held in October 2023, was a tremendous success. The positive feedback from participants and the impact on their lives have motivated us to continue expanding this initiative. The next program will begin late July 2024 and will be offered in-person and online. 

We are committed to growing the Shoulder to Shoulder Program and reaching more veterans across the country. Our future plans include:

  • Expanding the Course: Offering more sessions throughout the year to accommodate more veterans.
  • Developing Online Resources: Creating online materials to complement the in-person course, making it accessible to veterans who may not be able to attend in person.
  • Collaborating with Veteran Organizations: Partnering with veteran programs and organizations to spread the word and increase participation.
  • Creating Advanced Courses: Developing advanced music courses for veterans who want to continue their musical journey beyond the basics.

Learn more about our Veterans Outreach programs

If you are a veteran interested in exploring music or know someone who might benefit from this program, we invite you to join us. For more information about the Shoulder to Shoulder Veterans Music Program and other veteran-specific initiatives, please visit this webpage.

Music has the power to heal, connect, and inspire. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those who have served by giving them the gift of music. Let’s make music that matters. Let’s live by music.