The music room is one of the many spaces at Dans la rue where youth can relax and explore their creativity. It means something different to everyone, but ultimately it is a place where they can share their stories in their own voice.
Lou
Lou is a music room regular. Sitting at the piano, she plays a few notes before giving into her curiosity and trying out some other instruments. This is a place where she is comfortable to express herself freely.
“The music room is really what keeps me coming back to Dans la rue, because I know it’s a safe space where I can just be me,” she says.
Vlad
Vlad also enjoys it. Singing helps him channel his energy and find the balance he needs to move toward greater independence.
“When I sing, I feel like there’s this weight that’s been lifted from me,” he says. “I have ADHD, and there are times I need to be able to focus on what I love. It helps me concentrate on what inspires me and use what I enjoy to regain a sense of stability. It’s a great stepping stone toward other things like finding a job, honouring my commitments and living in the moment.”
For Lou, Vlad and so many others, the music room isn’t just a rehearsal studio. It’s a place of trust where everyone can make progress at a pace that works for them.
“Part of being an adolescent is learning who you are and discovering what matters to you,” explains Anick Desrosiers, a social worker and psychotherapist with Dans la rue’s mental health services. “Music offers another way to express your feelings, your experiences and the emotions you’re going through.”
These moments of self-discovery do not happen by chance.
They are made possible by the generosity of the many people who choose to step up for young people in need.
Every donation to Dans la rue helps keep spaces like these running, make a variety of programs and services available to foster their well-being and remind them of the many possibilities available to them.
