This morning the Boston Globe had a feature article on its Lifestyle page. Its entitled Chemo, Radiation and Song. Check out our link to this article. It states:” Recent research lends credence to the idea that the emotional gains from music therapy can lead to physiological ones, too. A review of 30 studies, ranging from 8 to 260 participants, found significant benefits.” The study was completed by the Cochrane Collaboration.

It was bedtime at Star House. That time can be one of the most difficult times for children who have been abused. Fears and anxieties grew as the sun set and the night staff came on. The shadows and darkness brought out hazy memories of past pain. This often led to physical complaints. My stomach aches. I can’t sleep. My throat is sore. Our music therapist sat in the hallway with her guitar and gently strummed a soothing melody. The atmosphere changed tangibly once night time became music time. You could feel a blanket of peace embrace the children. Everyone seemed to settle down and give way to sleep.

A ten year old girl wrote herself a lullaby. She had been the eldest of three triplets and often times played the role of parent and protector. She had difficulty learning how to self soothe as a child. Through the writing of her own song and playing it at bedtime, she was able to relax and make significant improvements with her insomnia.

MUSIC IS POWERFUL. It is even more powerful when used in the context of a therapeutic relationship. We at Star House know. We witnessed its power on a daily basis. We will continue to educate the community and push forward with our mission to use the arts as a means of healing.

COMING IN SPRING 2012

AN ART GALLERY SHOW AT ENDICOTT COLLEGE.

A special thanks to all those who attended and supported our fundraiser in September!

COMING THIS FALL

A Performance to Benefit Star House

Two stories by Kurt Vonnegut, Jr.

performed by acclaimed actor Glen Williamson

Friday September 16 8:00PM

Saturday September 17 7:30 PM

Attend a special post performance party with Glenn and share food and wine. Tickets: $100 for the performance and party.

Acting workshop Saturday morning 11:00AM – 1:00PM

Spend time with actor Glenn Williamson exploring your creative self through movement and improvisation. Cost: $50.00 Lunch included

Location: Star House 323 Rear Elliott Street, Beverly

Tickets: $25.00 for adults, $15 for students, seniors and children (suggested age 12 and older)

To make reservations call 978 578-3702

To read more about Glenn Williamson visit his website at:

http://mysite.verizon.net/GlenWilliamson/http://mysite.verizon.net/GlenWilliamson/

Who Am I This Time?

And

The Kid Nobody Could Handle

Two stories by Kurt Vonnegut, Jr.

performed by Glen Williamson

Saturday September 17 8:00 PM

Location: Star House 323 Rear Elliott Street, Beverly

Cheers and congratulations again! Your performance was truly extraordinary. I called Kurt (Vonnegut) the next morning and raved about you – then wrote him a note and raved some more.”

–Sally Forbes, Executive Director, The Beaux Arts Alliance, New York, NY.

From the opening to the closing tableaux of “The Kid.” Glen had me spellbound.”  

-Mark Solomons, Oakland CA