Sounds Of The Street

Approximately 23 years ago a Kings Cross youth counsellor by the name of Phill Nunn realised that if he took his guitar into sessions the people seeking his help would often stick around longer and talk more. Thus this very simple idea sprouted what is now known as the Sounds Of The Street program, which gives Sydney youth an opportunity to change their lives through music.

Sounds Of The Street is a 20 week music course run by Mission Australia in conjunction with Ultimo TAFE, teaching the participants how to write, record, produce and perform music – which ultimately awards them with a Certificate II in Music.

The program though is more than just an educational experience, explains program coordinator Liz Martin: “Whilst the students are studying music and having that cathartic experience they also receive support and help to find appropriate housing [and] counselling to work through their issues, so it’s a pretty unique educational environment.”

This added level of support is crucial in Liz’s opinion, especially since many of these students are “dealing with a lot of issues outside of the classroom”, and is perhaps why the program has such positive outcomes and a high completion rate.

“Often for a lot of the students this is one of the first things that they have completed, so they have a real sense of accomplishment,” said Liz. “Yes we do have some students drop out, but that’s part of the nature of the kinds of students we’re working with. Around two thirds of the students complete the course though and often many of those go on to further studies at Ultimo TAFE.”

Tonight after completing the 20 week course and two full weeks of rehearsals, the most recent semester’s batch of students are ready to take to the stage and showcase both what they have learned as well as their talents.

“For a lot of them it will be the first time they’ve ever performed live, and for that to be in such a great venue such as the Red Rattler who have always been really supportive of us if fantastic,” beamed Liz.

Tonights show will have a little bit for everyone, as Liz explained to us that this year has been quite diverse in terms of genres, so the City Hub strongly encourages all of our readers to get out and support these young people who are making a huge effort to change their lives for the better. (JA)

Feb 9, 5pm. The Red Rattler, 6 Faversham St, Marrickville. FREE. Info: www.missionaustralia.com.au