Beyond the Corner: Introducing a String Music Program to Youth in Detention

Abstract

Offering music programs in prisons is one way that artists may contribute to the correctional system’s rehabilitative goals. To explore the role music may play in rehabilitating youth in detention, I developed a string program at a Youth Development Center. The purpose of this qualitative case study was to explore the outcomes of implementing the string program at the center. Eight of the program’s members, aged 13 to 17 from various cultural backgrounds, volunteered to participate in this study. Data collection included field notes and interviews with the youth and facility staff members. Results showed that the program was beneficial to students and the center. Although students learned to play string instruments, rehearse in an ensemble, and perform in public, they also reported feeling a sense of achievement and increased personal potential. In addition, students and staff members noted students’ improved communication skills, increased frustration tolerance, perseverance, and behavior regulation as a result of participating in the string program. Reported benefits to the center included pride in student success, community development within the center, the staff’s increased sense of making a difference, and positive press.