A group of Ball State University students are hoping to bring music and friendship into the lives of Hoosiers with special needs.  And, it’s one of only two collegiate programs in the country to do so.  As part of a Ball State University class focused on arts journalism, reporter Esther Bower introduces us to United Sound.

United Sound brings in people between the ages of 18 and 28 who have various disabilities and introduce them to an art form they may have never experienced.  While participants may only get an introduction to playing certain instruments, United Sound President Margaret Haley says there’s a greater benefit.

“People blossom through their experiences in music,” she says. “And they become more comfortable when they’re connected with people on that level. So, even though it’s not collegiate level music that we’re doing, it’s still very important for them to be able to participate.”

Rehearsals run throughout the year and participants are mentored by those in the organization.

From playing alongside one another in practice to performing as a group at various events, Haley says the relationships made far exceed just playing music together.

“Most of our students are – we’re now Facebook official friends.  So, they’re looking to build relationships, which is kind of a therapy thing for people with special needs.”

Since one in five Americans have some type of disability, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, finding new forms of therapy is important, and options that don’t rely on medication are increasingly popular.

These positive relationships and experiences kept xylophonist John Gimenez coming back for his second year with United Sound.

“I get to meet a lot of neat students at Ball State.”

After playing the xylophone for two years, he’s grown in self-confidence and encourages others to take the step to get involved, even if they’re scared.

“Just try out an instrument, and if you like it, keep it.”

While Gimenez has had the chance to work with a lot of Ball State students, other universities can’t say the same.  In fact, Ball State’s chapter of United Sound is only one of two in the nation.