National Foundation for Giving Voice
A Giving Voice Residency
"I wish everyone could have this experience " (nurse, female)
A GV Residency took place for the first time in November. Held at Lattendales Centre for Well-Being in Cumbria, it involved daily 'Musical Offerings' over a month-long period, while Jill was staying there, working on our first GV Songbook.
Almost all 'Musical Offerings' lasted just 30 minutes. Many people had a profound experience, often finding words difficult. Here are some of their attempts:-
"I feel I experienced the soul of the song" (student, male)
"Pure Peace" (general assistant, female)
"So grateful to be alive!"
"I wept tears of joy!" (counsellor, female)
"I had the best night's sleep in ages!" (retired social worker, female)
"My response was from a deep level - childhood, cellular, healing" (counsellor. female)
"More please!!!!!!!" (architectural designer, male)
Jill's residency coincided with some groups visiting the centre for weekends. Here are a few of the many positive comments:
"The most fulfilling part of the weekend for me. Thank you"
"It was a precious part of our weekend ."
"I'm leaving lighter!"
She also offered other enlightening and inspiring musical opportunities, including individual sessions:
"[It] has been very enabling . and will benefit my life for years to come - indeed for the rest of my life. Thank you Jill - your work is vital and valuable!"
At the final session, Jill introduced her latest song - conceived and born at Lattendales. Entitled, "May the doors of your house be open", it offers the opportunity to grow love and compassion within and without - including where we live and work, and is dedicated to all those to whom Lattendales is dear.
Some realised that GV could be helpful in this way, and/or in their place of worship, and/ or in their workplace. To find out more - about GV in such situations, or to enquire about a possible Residency elsewhere, contact the Foundation. A report on the Residency will also shortly be available.
Both the Centre Manager and Jill both felt that they'd do it again - " no doubt about it ", as the centre manager said.
GV Residentials come in all shapes and sizes and can take place in schools, colleges, health centres, hospitals, community centres and workplaces. Do get in touch to find out more.