In a remarkable fusion of music and service, the Arts and Music Programs for Education in Detention Centers (AMPED) at Northwestern University have been transforming the lives of incarcerated youth since 2012. Founded by Bienen Professor Maud Hickey, this student-led initiative has blossomed into a vibrant community, bridging the gap between the arts and civic engagement.

Empowering Incarcerated Youth Through the Transformative Power of Music

Humble Beginnings, Exponential Growth

What started with just five student members has now grown into a program boasting between 15 and 20 Northwestern University students, led by fifth-year music education Ph.D. candidate and AMPED Program Coordinator Patrick Horton. Hickey's initial vision of reaching out to "non-traditional spaces" and harnessing the power of music composition has taken root, creating a sense of community and connection for the students at the Cook County Juvenile Temporary Detention Center.

Bridging the Gap: Music, Education, and Civic Engagement

AMPED's mission extends beyond just providing music education; it aims to foster a deeper understanding and collaboration between the incarcerated youth and the Northwestern community. Sheldon Frazier, the new assistant coordinator for the program, emphasizes the value of this partnership, stating that it "resonated with me in a way that I think is really valuable for members, not only of the Northwestern community, but also members that are incarcerated to be able to collaborate with one another."

Cultivating Connections Through Music Composition

The program's approach is centered around music composition, allowing the incarcerated students to express themselves and create their own original works, ranging from spoken word poems to rap songs. This creative outlet not only provides a means of self-expression but also fosters a sense of community and shared success. As Horton explains, "There's just so many people that have all these different perspectives about music and working with incarcerated people and it's really powerful."

Preparing for Impact: Rigorous Training and Dedication

To ensure the success of the program, AMPED student mentors undergo extensive training, attending four mandatory sessions led by the program's leadership during the fall quarter. This preparation equips them with the necessary skills and understanding to effectively engage with the incarcerated students during the weekly 75-minute sessions at the detention center.

Celebrating Shared Achievements: The Listening Party

The culmination of the AMPED program is the highly anticipated listening party, where the incarcerated students have the opportunity to premiere their original compositions, often arranged using GarageBand. This celebration not only showcases the students' talents but also allows the AMPED members to come together and revel in their shared accomplishments, fostering a sense of community and pride.AMPED's journey has been one of unwavering dedication, innovative thinking, and a steadfast commitment to empowering incarcerated youth through the transformative power of music. As the program continues to grow and evolve, it stands as a shining example of how the arts can bridge the divide and create meaningful connections, ultimately making a lasting impact on the lives of those it serves.