The Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ) teamed up with Create NSW last week (21 June) to host two Sydney-based singer-songwriters and their bands for a live gig at a Corrective Services NSW (CSNSW) women’s prison.
DCJ said the aim of the show was to empower inmates and share the benefits of music.
It said blues musician, Karen Lee Andrews and electronica pop artist, Thandi Phoenix performed in front of about 180 inmates and staff at Dillwynia Correctional Centre in Sydney’s north-west for Make Music Day, a global celebration of music.
Principal Advisor of Women Offenders at CSNSW, Kelly-Anne Stewart said the live-music event had a positive effect on the inmates’ mood.
“Music helps regulate emotions, so it put the women in a positive mind space, which helps improve their engagement in programs, education and work,” Ms Stewart said.
“Some of the women in custody come in with musical talents – they can sing, rap or play instruments – so we hope the day inspired them,” she said.
Executive Director of Create NSW, Chris Keely said the event was unique and he was pleased Ms Andrews and Ms Phoenix were able to share their musical passion and talents with CSNSW prison staff and inmates.
