Virtual Introduction to Guitar

Soldier On will be partnering with Music Therapy to host virtual guitar lessons for a six week duration. These sessions will run once a week on Wednesdays starting on the 20th of January to the 24th February, 2021.

Five ill/injured serving or retired members of the Canadian Armed Forces will receive introductory guitar lessons to assist in the continuation of a healthy lifestyle.

This activity will bring together both serving and retired ill/injured CAF members, allowing participants to connect through peer support and encourage a creative lifestyle. The aim of this activity will be to be introduced by a variety of cords, strum patterns and the ability to learn basic songs. Thanks to the collaboration of Guitars for Vets Canada, guitars will be supplied and mailed to participants. The participants will keep the guitars.

Participants will be given the opportunity to learn guitar through instruction and hands on experience. You will do this by learning a variety of cords and strum patterns using a virtual platform to be determined at a later date. Participants will need a computer and web camera or a cellphone for the lessons. Assistance throughout the lessons will be provided courtesy of Fleur Hughes at Music Therapy 42. Fleur is a veteran of British army.

The number of Soldier On participants is limited to 5.

Minimum eligibility criteria
Any serving member or veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) in the Alberta and Northern Canada geographical area who acquired a permanent physical or mental health illness or injury while enrolled as a member of the CAF; whether attributable or not to service.

Mental & Physical Requirements
Participants must be able to tolerate 1 hour of light paced lessons.

Participants will be joined with other ill/injured members and civilians, and therefore should be able to function in a social environment.