Finding Rhythms CIO

Who we are

Overview

We deliver collaborative music-making courses for those marginalised and disengaged either within the prison service or in the community. Our distinctive approach gives beneficiaries confidence, self-belief and soft skills preparing them for a better future in society.

History

Finding Rhythms has built a reputation as intervention specialists in the field of musical creativity. Since 2012, we have worked with over 25 UK prisons in addition to building vital partnerships with like-minded charities, schools and alternative provisions and probation services. Our beneficiaries craft original songs, aided by professional music producers, and this has resulted in the creation of over 600 songs and 50 albums of original music and over 300 learners achieving qualifications.

The creative process in more detail

Our aim is to empower learners to make the kind of music that they connect with personally, which means we cover genres ranging from Jazz to Drill. Learners are tasked with working to tight deadlines to create albums of music in teams and as a result they build soft skills (e.g., critical thinking, time management) and work to deadlines as they would do in the workplace. We have formalised this learning process by embedding a Prince’s Trust qualification personal development and employability skills in the intervention, which ultimately means that the progress of learners is assessed. Prioritising the interest of the learner and treating then as artist and creators in their own right ensures that a unique type of trust is built, empowering participants to not only commit to the creative process and the qualification but build purposeful relationships with our team. Our musicians use coaching language (person centred dialogue to help individuals establish goals) and methods to procure a deeper and more meaningful impact for the learner.

“It has improved my confidence, ability to work in groups. Shown me what I can do which I never knew before. The praise I have received from good work has given me a sense of purpose.” - Prison learner

"I've just been really proud of everybody in here, because it's not the easiest environment to be in, it's not the easiest to to get yourself motivated and get yourself out. But this is something that they've all really, really enjoyed and the group work, the way you've been supporting, everyone's put something in. And it's just been really lovely to see." - Prison staff member