LONDON, August 24, 2009 (WAFA)- A university lecturer will use music to help children living with the physical and emotional scars of growing up in war-torn Palestine, WalesOnline websiote published Monday.
Liz Coombs will use music therapy with children, some of whom have behavioural difficulties, at an orphanage in Bethlehem.
She hopes to be able to pass on her skills to carers, social workers and teachers during her six-week stay at the SOS Children’s Village in the Palestinian West Bank.
Liz, a visiting lecturer in creative therapies in education at Newport University, said: “I’m really looking forward to working on this project which is run by Music as Therapy International, a UK registered charity whose mission has long been to develop the use of music as a means to relieve those living in conditions of need, hardship or distress, suffering from mental or physical disability and the effects of poverty or sickness.
“The SOS Children’s Village is the world’s largest orphan and abandoned children’s charity and provides a home to children caught up in the conflict in Palestine.
“Having dealt with many years of violence, they need an outlet through which they can express themselves positively and in a non-violent manner as they experience behavioural problems such as extreme anxiety and abandonment issues.
“Using music therapeutically in groups and with individuals can help children explore their difficulties safely and creatively.
“I’m very excited about this project and a little nervous, too, as the challenges of working in a beleaguered community will be different from those I have faced before. I’m looking forward to exploring the possibilities of music-making with the children, but more importantly sharing skills with local people.
“Respecting and working with cultural differences will be very important in building good relationships with all involved with the project.
Music as Therapy Inter- national has helped more than 3,000 children and adults over the last 14 years.
Hebe Alloun, leader of the creative therapies in education course, said: “The work Liz is doing in Bethlehem mirrors the work our students will be doing when they leave and it’s so important for them to learn about work in the community and in other cultures.
“When she returns, Liz will be bringing her work in Bethlehem to life in the course through lectures and workshops.”
