How music therapy helped Ruthie express their LGBTQ+ identity
Songwriting in music therapy has supported Ruthie to express their unique identity. And it’s during music therapy that Ruthie wrote ‘Songs of Pride’.
Ruthie’s song, ‘Songs of Pride’, explores the experience of being part of the LGBTQ+ community, and is a testament to Ruthie’s journey as a queer person. The lyrics are about imagining a world where National Coming Out Day might no longer be needed.
“Penning the lyrics made me reflect on my dignity and spiritual journey as a queer person.”
Ruthie
“The lyrics, while personal, I hope resonate with you,” says Ruthie. “They incorporate themes of diversity, personal agency, unashamed joy at standing in the presence of both a higher being and other human beings, my love of gardening (a great microcosm of life!) and life’s journey.” Read on further to discover the lyrics in full.
Listen to Songs of Pride
The lyrics to ‘Songs of Pride’ were written by Ruthie in music therapy. However, the song was brought to life with one of our music therapists, Joe, our Social Media Assistant Rue, and Danbee, who also takes part in music therapy.
“Although I wrote the song, it came to life as each of us brought their own musicality and creativity,” says Ruthie.
This companionship and collaboration echoes the theme of solidarity which is central to National Coming Out Day, and the queer community itself.
Songs of Pride
by Ruthie Raphael (she/they)
Verse 1
It’s a flourish through do, rey, me
On the keyboard of harmony
Music takes Pride in all our lives
A worldwide symphony
Verse 2
From the moment that seed is sown
Till the flower is fully grown
We dance and sway
In our own way
Our beauty’s here to stay
CHORUS
Songs of Praise
and Songs of Pride
God knows I have nothing to hide
I’m me … standing in the presence of thee
Varied rainbow-coloured hues
Several different points of view
We’re free
Standing in the presence of thee
Verse 3
If the winds of this earth grow cold
And you can’t see that glimmer of hope
Hold on to Pride, your strength inside
The music will yet unfold
Verse 4
The journey is hard and sweet
We don’t know when it is complete
Hold with your might to all that Pride
Your rhythm finds its own beat
CHORUS
Songs of Praise
and Songs of Pride
God knows I have nothing to hide
I’m me … standing in the presence of thee
Varied rainbow coloured hues
Several different points of view
We’re free
Standing in the presence of thee
Making music with Joe, Danbee and Rue is a great source of enjoyment and achievement. Nordoff and Robbins is an enriching organisation, celebrating the unique contributions of all its members, staff and service users alike.
Ruthie
Here at Nordoff and Robbins, we aim to empower everyone we work with to express their individuality and grow their self-esteem, no matter what their background. “We’re dedicated to ensuring that marginalised LGBTQ+ individuals and communities can engage in music therapy, feel heard and be celebrated wherever we meet them,” says Joe, Ruthie’s music therapist.
This blog post was written in celebration of National Coming Out Day which, whilst a celebration, is also a reminder of the work still to be done in uplifting the LGBTQ+ community.
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