Kiama local Stephen Holmes has found a new and creative way of putting his love of music to good use. His music studio known as The Amp Shop is located on Manning Street, Kiama and is decked out with his favourite guitars, basses, recording gear and of course amps.
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It’s not your typical run-of-the-mill music studio though as Stephen explained to me, it’s a place where he mentors and consults young people who are in desperate need of guidance. I’m personally inspired by the work that Stephen does at The Amp Shop and thought it would be a good idea to find out more.
Stephen uses music to connect with young people, mostly teenage boys, who are experiencing trauma and disconnection at the locus of the child protection, criminal justice, mental health and disability systems.
He says “Music is a pretty direct way to connect with young people. Whether it's bashing the drums, rapping on a beat they've helped create or showing me songs they know, young people open up. From there the real stuff comes out, what's got them into trouble or kept them from getting help in the past. Music is a safe place to start, and the hard work gets easier when you're having fun.”
For more info visit www.floatingaxe.com.au
Glenn Haworth runs Haworth's Music Centres in Shellharbour and Fairy Meadow. Visit www.haworthguitars.com.au
