Music as a tool to empower vulnerable children: A case study of Brass for Africa Uganda

Abstract

Music as a tool in empowering vulnerable children has to Uganda in different contexts. This study was carried out to examine the role of music in empowering vulnerable children in Kampala. The study documented the attitudes and perceptions of vulnerable children regarding music therapy programs in which they are engaged and also to bring to light the benefits and challenges in using music as an empowering tool to vulnerable children. A qualitative approach was used and purposive sampling techniques were employed. Data were collected using personal interviews, audio and video recordings, documentary research and photography. The findings of the study revealed that, music empowers young children and provides them with opportunities to develop talents and social and life skills that enable them to express themselves creatively. In addition, music provides the children with a safe environment, boosts their memory, promotes a positive mood and makes them become good leaders through their acquired self-confidence. Study findings are discussed in terms of their implications to establishing music programs in organizations, pedagogical approaches and their general usefulness in the lives of vulnerable children.