Feedback On The Creative Musical Workshop for Veterans. By Steve Taylor
I am a veteran of some 27 years of military service, with a further 15 years on the “circuit” in Iraq on Armed Protection Teams. Although I have never experienced any mental trauma, I have seen the devastating effects it has had on close friends, exasperated by a non-caring government attitude.
Veterans use a variety of methods to release their emotions, some violent and self-destructive, often finding solitude at the bottom of a bottle. This is often turned inward in the household resulting in family breakups, further causing a downward spiral into depression.
Writing and music are excellent therapeutic remedies and outlets for, not only talent but ways of being heard and recognised. I was approached by Suzie Stanford early last year, encouraging me to write some lyrics for a forthcoming venture.
This resulted in a double album, written and produced by veterans to raise awareness for PTSD. I was proud to have contributed and assisted in the production of this project. It gave me some focus and rekindled my writing skills long left to stagnate on the shelf.
I had written a number of poems that I had composed in a time of great depression. I submitted a number of these to Suzi who worked on around 10 of them. I was amazed by the beautiful songs she produced and the variety.
One song was very special to me. With this in mind, I attended a workshop with Suzie late last year in Paignton, Devon. I chose the singer, Suzie had used on previous recordings and amazing singer who brought what was a simple verse into an amazing song that I am so proud off and listen to constantly.
Suzie has an unbridled passion for music and to help our veterans. She has been a great coach, encouraging me and bring out my creativity.
Suzie took me all the way through the creative process, from what was a single verse poem through to arranging it into verses and adding a chorus. Throughout the initial progress small amendments and helpful suggestions. This stimulated my creativity and two further verses I think really made this song.
This is Steves favourite song. I think he did really well with this song. I’m so proud of him and all that he has achieved with his creative arts.
The studio recording was an experience I will never forget. The atmosphere was relaxed and tranquil, not hurried. I had full input at every stage. What I thought was an already great song with just vocals and an acoustic guitar, tuned into what I would say is the most beautiful song I have ever heard. I watched with great interest as the Sound engineer laid down the various elements, bringing them altogether seamlessly. I am proud of the song, up there with the best music around.
I think this workshop idea should be expanded. Veterans have unique experiences in life, both good and bad. They have much to say, if only people would listen. Now they can via their ideas put to music. I have since approached several comrades who have expressed an interest in attending. Many have jotted down short poems and prose on their experiences. Suzi’s workshop would certainly give them focus and a feeling of self-worth gained.
Steve Taylor
This is one of Steves poems that was put to a song
Steve Words Now In Songs
Steve has now had several of his “lyrics” put into song. You can listen to them all on Youtube – Just click the button [opens in a new page] – Thank you.
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