(November 15, 2006), Saskatoon – The "Joy of Jammin" music group, consisting of Mental Health and Addiction Services rehabilitation clients and staff members, is set to jam with award-winning, country singing sensation Brad Johner.
"Music has provided a theurapeutic outlet for many in the group. It's an opportunity for us to come together and simply be musicians. We are looking forward to sharing our love of music with Mr. Johner, and belting out a little Rolling Stones and Johnny Cash," says Marg Petty, Recreation Therapist and group co-founder. "Some musicians live a lifetime without playing with a professional; we've been honoured to have jammed with a number of talented musicians. We are also thankful to Long & McQuade Music for their continued support by providing us with a venue to play, as well as loaning us the instruments."
The "Joy of Jammin" group meets weekly at Long and McQuade in the fall and winter months and have made Crocus Co-op their summer home. Crocus Co-op is a member-directed, inner-city drop-in centre for mental health consumers.
Membership to the group is done by clinician referrals from a client's physician, nurse or other mental health community worker. The group welcomes both experienced musicians, as well as budding artists with a musical interest.
"It's very rewarding to be involved in a group like this," says Lindsay Walker, Registered Occupational Therapist and group co-founder. "We know it's a success by the number of people who come out and by the energy in the room. We're not afraid to try new things and we always do our best. We do occasionally have to pause from laughing too hard."
To date, the group has also jammed with Don Griffiths (keyboard player for Ian Tyson, Ronnie Hawkins, Dr. Don and the Black Mambas), local musician Brian Digby (drummer), Dean Graham (songwriter) and Roy Sydiaha (percussionist with the Saskatoon Symphony, the Roy Sydiaha Jazz Quartet and the C-95 Very Bad Garageband). We are also pleased to have Roy join us again as we jam with Brad Johner.
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For more information contact:
Kerilyn Voigt
Corporate and Public Affairs Adviser
Saskatoon Health Region
306-655-3386
Saskatoon Health Region
"Healthiest people, healthiest communities, exceptional service."
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