They call it the Musicability Choir.
Angèle Jodouin and Melodie Grealy-Fredette / Photo by Andre Gagne
“Music has always been a part of what we do and is a big part of who we are,” explain Jodouin and Grealy-Fredette . They pair first met on orientation day in the Algonquin College DSW program. In 2006 the two friends became business partners originally working with families in their homes, building customized plans, sharing skills and strategies and empowering them to reach their goals.
The career path seemed pretty clear. Then they had kids and that shifted their focus a little. The main drive remained, however, and that was that Jodouin and Grealy-Fredette wanted to spend their lives helping others. They changed gears and created Family Harmonies Familiales, an Ottawa-based origination of Developmental Service Professionals offering a variety of flexible supports for families and individuals with and without special needs.
Sharing that love of music –Melodie even has a musical name– they soon realized they wanted to incorporate a more melodious component into their work. When they learned that many people with special needs, mental health or undiagnosed issues didn’t have many musical avenues to turn down, the duo created another branch on their giving tree in 2015 with Musicability.
“Music is so universal — it connects with all people on some level. We believe that each person can participate and contribute in making music in some way. It is empowering for all involved in being a part of something so positive,” they say.
Both trained as DSWs, Jodouin and Grealy-Fredette bring their past experience to working with the group’s various needs. They are also big on peer support and encourage others within Musicability to share their own skill set with those around them. Every Wednesday between 6 and 8pm the group meets at the Montgomery Legion (330 Kent St.), an accessible location. A typical group meeting sees anywhere from 5 to 25 attendees ready to face the music.
“We start by talking about upcoming gigs and events and then we play for about an hour. Everyone picks a song from our books, unless we are rehearsing a set list. We also have a variety of instruments for the group to learn and explore such as the keyboard, bass, guitar, ukuleles, drums, shakers, tambourine and a wide variety of percussive instruments. We end with a snack and social time and hugs.”
The two point out that the group is not just about the amazingness that happens while singing but also about personal growth. Musicability realizes the joy that comes out of being part of something that is all inclusive, a place where everyone has a say. It’s something choir members take great pride in being part of each week.
“I find it very comforting that everyone there understands that we all may be facing challenges that make the simplest things difficult,” says group member Fiona. “I appreciate how seamlessly accommodations are made. For me, sitting rather than standing when I get dizzy and wearing noise cancelling head phones has made singing much more enjoyable.”
“I would describe my experience as feeling wanted, like I finally belong to something,” says fellow member Will. “The group encourages and empowers myself and others to relax and have fun. We mix a little old school with a little new school.”
Meaghan adds that each day in Musicability is one where they are pushed to learn, be it new material or a new instrument, while Sherry and Deb state how glad they are to be in a place where they don’t feel judged.
“We feel that we are not able to do something just because we have disabilities and we can showcase to people what we are capable of,” says Sherry. “Musicability makes us feel good.”
The group has accumulated many supporters over the years from other musicians, venue owners and radio personalities. They’ve performed at House of Targ, The Capital Fair and Westfest, to name a few spots you could find their songs and smiles. This summer they have some mobile workshops set up, will be making some band merch and have a benefit gig at the Rainbow Bistro come July 3rd. As membership is by pay what you can, every little helps help support them.
“It’s such a powerful thing to share and spread so much love and joy with so many different people,” says Jodouin and Grealy-Fredette. “Our hearts are often overflowing.”
Learn more about Musicability and how to register for the choir by clicking here.
