If students in Jenna Grazzini’s music therapy class at Woodlawn Elementary School don’t feel like talking some mornings, that’s perfectly okay. They are learning to communicate through writing songs and strumming ukuleles. Third grader Kanijah Willingham sits quietly most mornings, but the moment he picks up a bright purple ukulele, his voice shines as he softly sings a song he wrote himself. 

“Writing music definitely helps kids open up,” Grazzini said. “If someone is sharing a story in a normal conversation, it’s clearly a personal story. But if you're writing lyrics it can be anyone’s story. It can be anonymous. So it doesn’t feel as vulnerable.”

As a music therapist, Grazzini teaches elements of music including reading notes, following tempo, and rhyming lyrics. But the goal is much bigger than that. All of her students qualify for music therapy through differing diagnoses including Autism Spectrum Disorder, Emotional and Behavioral Disabilities, or other health impairments.  Through music therapy, students are able to share their thoughts and feelings in a safe space, while also practicing social skills and communicating with peers in a respectful way. 

“They all have different challenges they face that morning before class,” Grazzini says. “We use songwriting with the ukulele because it removes the pressure of verbal communication and creates an avenue of communication in a safe, non-threatening environment."

The ukuleles are new this year and funded through a grant from Music For Life. They are perfect for elementary students thanks to the smaller size of the instrument and the soft nylon strings. During class, students can work individually or together to create songs with fun themes like St. Patricks Day or superheroes. 

“I feel happy and excited when I get to create music!” said third grader Jaxon Hubbard. “It’s fun making music with my friends. It’s relaxing!”

In addition to the 20 turquoise and purple ukuleles, the students at Woodlawn ES can use drum sets, keyboards, guitars, DJ turntables, or microphones to express themselves. With each note strummed and every lyric sung, Grazzini cheers the students on. The creative process allows students to build confidence and increase self-esteem, and that carries over to all aspects of a child's educational experience. 

“You can't access learning until you know how to feel comfortable in your body and feel safe and respect others,” Grazzini says. “We want to help them relax so they can move forward and have a successful day.” 

At the end of class, students have the chance to share what they’ve created. Third grader Jaxon chooses to sing a silly song that makes it clear - he’s ready for lunch.

“Chicken wing, chicken wing. Hot dog and bologna. Hanging with my homies!”  

Music therapy is available at select FCPS schools and Comprehensive Services Sites. Students are eligible for the program based on their IEP goals. Learn more about Special Education instruction at FCPS. 

Music For Life is an FCPS Ignite partner. Learn more about Ignite partnerships.