Frequently Asked Questions

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Sapphire Rays of Sunshine (SROS) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing therapeutic music interventions to help adults manage and overcome depression. We offer workshops and resources aimed at improving mental health through the therapeutic benefits of music.

Our approach to therapeutic music interventions is unconventional because we incorporate a range of musical genres and techniques, including improvisation, sound healing, and collaborative music creation. It is really We focus on providing a personalized experience that resonates with each individual's unique needs and preferences.

You can support our organization by making a monetary or in-kind donation, volunteering your time, attending our events, or spreading the word about our services. Every contribution helps us continue to provide valuable resources and support to those in need.

We offer a variety of workshops, including group music sessions which may involve individual music therapy, songwriting and composition workshops, and sound healing sessions. Each workshop is designed to provide a safe and supportive environment for participants to explore and express their emotions through music.

Therapeutic music intervention is a structured and systematic use of music to address and support physical, emotional, cognitive, and social needs of individuals. It involves planned and intentional activities that leverage the inherent qualities of music—such as rhythm, melody, harmony, and lyrics—to achieve specific therapeutic goals. These goals may include reducing symptoms of depression, alleviating anxiety, improving mood, enhancing cognitive function, and fostering social interaction.

Therapeutic music interventions can be delivered by trained professionals, such as music therapists, and may include activities like listening to music, creating music, singing, playing instruments, and engaging in guided imagery with music. 

Therapeutic music interventions can help with depression by providing a non-verbal outlet for expressing emotions, reducing stress and anxiety, improving mood, and fostering a sense of connection and support. Music can also stimulate the release of endorphins and other neuro-chemicals that enhance emotional well-being.

As a nonprofit organization, we strive to make our services as accessible as possible. Many of our workshops and resources are offered free of charge, though some may require a nominal fee to cover materials and operational costs. We also offer sliding scale fees.

Our programs are open to adults of all ages who are experiencing depression or other mental health challenges. No prior musical experience is necessary to participate in our workshops.

To participate in a workshop, you can visit our website and sign up through our events page. You can also contact us directly to inquire about upcoming workshops and availability.

To become a volunteer workshop facilitator, you can email us at sapphiresunrays@gmail.com.

To become a volunteer musician, singer, or band manager/director, you can email us at sapphiresunrays@gmail.com.

No musical talent or prior experience is required to benefit from music therapy. The focus is on the therapeutic process and personal expression, not on musical skill or performance.

The SROS Jazz and R&B band will be an in-house performance group dedicated to raising awareness about depression and generating funds for SROS. In addition, the band will travel to support other organizations in their efforts to educate communities and empower families to overcome difficult and depressing moments in life. Currently, the band's performers and directors will volunteer their time for practice and performance opportunities. Eventually, the band will also offer performances at a base or home location.

Yes, we are seeking to add to the Board of Directors within the next three to six months. Please email us  at sapphiresunrays@gmail.com regarding your interest.

You can contact us via email at sapphiresunrays@gmail.com or by phone at (773) 677-2910. You can also follow us on some social media platforms for updates on our programs and events.