In February 2021, ArtsCan Circle and 67 Records collaborated on creative art workshops and a mentorship program in Fort Albany, northern Ontario. This program format is called “Healing Through Music,” which takes a trauma-informed approach to the art of music-making and video production. We teach youth what their capable of through the free-flowing expression of music and video. From lyrical development to the final take of video production, we train our youth to learn the power of expression and give them tools to deal with their trauma in a positive way. 67 Records is currently working in the Fort Albany First Nations Community with plans to reach youth around the James Bay Coast

Healing Through Music is the brainchild of recording engineer Jeremiah Otis. This program takes a trauma-informed approach to the art of music-making and video production—teaching youth what they are capable of through the free-flowing expression of music and video, from lyrical development to the final take of video production. Artists train youth to learn the power of expression and give them the tools to deal with trauma positively and dream big.

The program is facilitated by Jeremiah Otis and Christopher Cottle. Youth have an opportunity to learn teamwork, filming, recording, songwriting, singing, visual arts and how to create a music video. Artistic tools, refreshments and meals are provided.l. ArtsCan Circle has been pivotal in the development and continual operations of the Healing Through Music program. In 2022 we aim to expand the program to provide more
mentorship opportunities to ensure the program is long lasting and lead by local individuals.

Healing Through Music was always meant to be more than just a workshop focusing on mental health outlets for youth but a place that fosters growth and promotes education to young people about what outcomes they can make for themselves. The 67 Rooted Program (tentative) aims to train youth not only in music and video production but also program facilitation so we can prepare the next generation of youth to carry on the Healing Through Music program. The will be 6 workshop (10 days) covering: Songwriting, Audio Engineering, Vocal Engineering, Storyboarding, Video Production, Video Editing and a bit of Graphic Design along with Leadership Training, Mental Health Exercises and many more. With this program we aim to provide long term employment solutions and opportunities to receive honorarium for participants to positively reinforce their time and encourage them to perform at their maximum potential.

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