
The Oberlin Music At Grafton prison choir provides an opportunity for members of the GRC and Oberlin communities to engage in community-building through music.
I worked with Dr. Jody Kerchner for a semester as a choir assistant at the Grafton Prison. My role was twofold, learning the music and helping her prep for rehearsals and leading by example as a choir member. I had to learn and teach some of the music to the men, but I also sang with them so they could follow my voice. This experience was the first in college for me of working with people outside of the educational setting. I am so grateful for my role, because it let me practice my leadership and teaching skills, and allowed me to support and enter the community Dr. Kerchner built with these men.