One of the highlights of my day is listening to our students as they participate in therapy. They may not know that as they sing, strum the guitar or play the piano, they are actually involved in therapy. Music can be therapeutic. It has the power to heal us, to help us deal with challenges and to enlighten us on life's journey. At West Ridge, we apply the power of music each day with our students as they participate in choir, guitar classes, jazz band, and song writing classes.

My dream has always been to record our students' songs so that they can provide inspiration and healing to all of us. Thanks to the generous support of the Michel Family, our third CD is being completed this week. The CD, entitled "AAAAA," consists of all original songs written by our students. You will need a tissue, as I did, when you listen to these amazing songs about lost loved ones, spiritual feelings, love, heartache, and songs of triumph. During our recent staff meeting, we invited four of our girls to come and perform their original songs for us. It was amazing as we listened to them share their music with us and then talk about the power of music and how Mr. Woods and our music program has changed their lives. Thanks to the long hours Mr. Woods and our staff, these new CD's will be available at the Scarecrow Festival.

But that's not all the exciting musical news at West Ridge Academy. In April 2010, we received notice that the world's most famous choir will be coming to perform for us. Yes…the Mormon Tabernacle Choir will be performing at our annual SPRING GALA on April 16th. This will be an amazing experience for all of us - our very own private concert by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir (they have agreed to perform my favorite song - Battle Hymn of the Republic). Please mark your calendars and plan to join us for a wonderful evening with the choir.

At WRA, we are so fortunate to have the many programs that assist our students obtain a change of heart. Next time you are on campus, listen carefully and you too may hear the sounds of therapy coming from our music rooms!

About the Author: Ken Allen is the Executive Director of West Ridge Academy in West Jordan, UT. He can be reached at 800-262-2697, kallen@westridgeacademy.com, or for additional information, visit www.westridgeacademy.com.