ABSTRACT
Demonstrating the role of music as an agent of resilience would be much easier if a CD accompanied this book. Since it does not, imagine, if you will, internal soundtracks to the following vignettes:
It is the early 1960s and hundreds of freedom fighters have joined Martin Luther King for a march on City Hall. Many have been bitten by guard dogs, battered by fire-hoses, clubbed by nightsticks, or thrown in jail. All of them have been disenfranchised simply by the color of their skin. As they link arms and begin to march, they lift their voices in that anthem of hope “We Shall Overcome.”
Earl is a 15-year-old high school sophomore, light of frame, and embarrassed by a stammer. Several older classmates have bullied and harassed him. At home in his basement, he takes out his frustrations and expresses his anger by playing his electric guitar along with songs like “Liar” by Megadeth blaring out of loudspeakers.
Family and friends have gathered at the funeral of a departed loved one. Expressions of grief and loss occur in the reading of scripture, the heartfelt eulogy, and hugs and handshakes; in addition, mourners share a personal and corporate affirmation of hopeful living in the congregational singing of the hymn “It Is Well With My Soul.” 1
Emily is an eight-year-old cancer patient. She has spent the bulk of her life in the hospital or in doctors' offices fighting a losing battle. Her music therapist, Angie, meets with her regularly and together they listen to music, sing songs, and play instruments. Emily has even composed her own song to express her spirit of optimism and determination, in spite of all she is undergoing.
