Over the weekend, I had the opportunity to be able to give a Violin Concert at the Ordnance Correctional Facility for the inmates and staff. I couldn’t help but feel excited as security checked my equipment and allowed me to wheel my violin on a cart through the checkpoints. As the Lieutenant and Activity Coordinator escorted me, I continued to debate in my mind which piece to begin the concert.

We entered the gymnasium and I only had a few minutes to tune and set up before the inmates entered the room. As I tuned my violin and saw people come in I couldn’t help but crack a smile because I’ve always wanted to play in a Jail. I love bringing music to people. Especially in Nursing Homes, Hospice, Hospitals, and Gyms because I feel as musicians we can make a positive impact through sharing our talents.

The Activity Coordinator told me that male and female inmates are not often allowed in the same room so it was a treat for everyone to be together. After everyone sat down I introduced myself and said that I would play a variety of music ranging from Disney’s Frozen to Queen’s We Are the Champions. I began the concert with Summertime from Porgy and Bess and could feel the atmosphere in the room change as it does in Nursing Homes and Hospitals. Initially, I felt anxious yet in that moment I felt peace and warmth.

As the concert continued I could hear people singing as I played Take Me Out to The Ballgame and applause as I announced that I would play Hey Jude from the Beatles. I remember laughing at one point from the surprised looks I received after I said I would play Free Bird. Yesterday was truly a joy and an experience I’ll never forget. I’m only one person with an acoustic violin yet the entire room sang and stomped their feet to the familiarity of songs from their past. Some of the inmates appreciated Disney’s Frozen because their family would watch the movie together and did not hesitate to belt out the lyrics and dance in their seats.

I shared that my grandmother inspires me to continue playing music in the community and performing familiar songs. She struggles in her journey with Alzheimer’s and can no longer remember anything that happens short-term but can still recall all the words to her favorite hymns such as How Great Thou Art or music from her past.

At the end of the concert, one of the inmates told me her mother had Alzheimer’s and believed music could help families reconnect. Another inmate said she was glad I played music from Charlie Brown and said she had a great time. One inmate shared that he loved Free Bird and that it was one of his favorite songs growing up.

Maybe next time I can come back with a bigger band or actually play The Devil Went Down to Georgia but I learned how much of an impact I can make with my violin and a willing spirit.