Earlier this year in July, Georgian music therapist Tako Zhordania delivered a seven-week introductory training at Open House, Georgia. You might have already seen Tako’s blog sharing her experience leading the project and Jenny’s blog on her time supervising Tako throughout.

The project trained and supported 5 caregivers and created the opportunity for 300 children and young people to have access to music sessions at Open House. Participating staff appreciated Tako’s insightful sessions and 100% of participants told us that the training introduced them to new music skills and techniques and the ability to use music in their sessions.

The training was interesting, informative and I got involved in the practical part which gave me a wonderful experience…The musical methods were interesting which was introduced by our music therapist. Especially, I enjoyed the combination of imitation and music, which educed the abilities of our children (weak and strong abilities).

Participating caregiver

100% of participants shared that what they learnt in the training project has changed the way they teach, work or provide care and that they are using what they learnt in activities beyond their music sessions. Additionally, all participants said that by the end of the training, they were more confident, enjoy their work more and are proud of their music sessions.

Turning to the impact on the 18 children that participated in the music sessions during the training, 60% of participating staff noted an improvement in emotional expression, participation and the relationship between peers. Notably, 100% of participants reported an improvement in concentration, empathy and social motivation.

[There has been an] improvement of imitational abilities and attention.

Participating caregivers

Collectively, Tako, Jenny and the five participating caregivers worked hard to make the most of the seven weeks of music skill-sharing and the feedback provided above clearly highlights the impact this has had on the staff and children in their care. We are thrilled at the outcomes already reported and look forward to hearing more about the participating staff running their music sessions independently.