ChrisCornell

Children's music therapy program established in Chris Cornell's honor

[Photo credit: Whitney Newell]

In honor of the late Chris Cornell’s birthday, Seattle-based nonprofit Childhaven have established the “Chris Cornell Music Therapy Program at Childhaven” in memory of the late musician and philanthropist. Vicky Cornell has already committed $100,000 to assist Childhaven's therapeutic early learning model for trauma-affected children.

“The Chris and Vicky Cornell Foundation is excited to join Childhaven to support its extraordinary work impacting the lives of those in need,” said Vicky Cornell. 

“Chris and I always shared a strong belief in the healing and inspiring power of music, and through Childhaven's establishment of this program, we are able to keep the promise for Chris by continuing to protect the world's most vulnerable children.”

Read more: Hear Chris Cornell’s vocals isolated from Soundgarden’s “Black Hole Sun”

The children at Childhaven, from infants to five-year-olds, will be offered therapy through the Chris Cornell Music Therapy Program. Through the music therapy program, children affected by trauma are provided a creative outlet through which they can express and explore difficult feelings through music, including interactions with a wide variety of instruments.

“Because of what they've experienced, a lot of children come to Childhaven struggling with anger and other overwhelming emotions,” noted local musician Brian Vogan, who runs music therapy at Childhaven. “Being able to beat on drums is really helpful for them. Other kids are very shy, and music helps to bring them out of their shell.”

And they’re honored to preserve Cornell’s memory through this program. 

“Music has the power to engage, to delight, and to heal,”  Childhaven CEO Jon Botten says. “Thanks to the Chris & Vicky Cornell Foundation, more of our most vulnerable children will be able to use music to build the resilience they need to reach their full potential.”

Read more: Watch a 225-person choir pay tribute to Chris Cornell

In addition to the charity work in his honor, the music world is celebrating Cornell’s mark on the music world. Spotify put together a special tribute episode for their Rock This playlist, including exclusive interviews with those close to the musician, including Tom Morello and Perry Ferrell to celebrate the life and legacy of Chris Cornell.

What are your thoughts on the special Chris Cornell's music therapy program? Let us know in the comments below.

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