How many of us have tried new hobbies during the Covid lockdown? Last year, while others started jigsaws, knitting and watercolours, the young people in Hengyang began a new music class. After a couple of training sessions, the staff took on the weekly class for over 50 young people in groups of 8-10!

The classes have brought opportunities for creative expression to all attending. It can be hard to find activities for our young people, even if we group them by ability. But the new music class is all-inclusive. A curated album of songs is prepared for each class, set in one key with instruments that, in the most part, compliment whoever plays. The attendees sit around a low table and can choose to take a turn to play or dance for the duration of each song. Handbells, tambourines, wood blocks and the popular iPad are available! It is a great way to enjoy being together, take turns, contribute to a shared sound and express yourself.  

Beading and crafts aren’t popular with Tantan but she loves music and with the use of one finger, she can produce great sounds using an app called Thumbjam. The flute, mandolin, synth and even the dirty organ are all in her grasp, and she loves it! Zhongwen’s visual impairment doesn’t seem to dull his enthusiasm for crafts, but he comes into his own when there is a song to sing along to. It is wonderful that ICC’s staff can provide more opportunities for Zhongwen to find the fullness of joy! 

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