.Music Studio Opens Inside Sonoma County Juvie

On the far-east side of Santa Rosa, all the kids locked up at juvie now have their own music studio inside the detention center, according to Sonoma County government officials — and two of the kids have already laid down tracks. Officials say the studio cost around $25,000 to set up and will cost $150,000 more each year to stay up and running. “Sonoma County’s Juvenile Hall has opened a new music recording studio with the goal of promoting self-expression, positivity and wellness among youth detained at the facility with the assistance of local music professionals,” says a new press release from the county. “The studio includes industry-standard microphones and recording software as well as three acoustic/electric guitars, one electric guitar, several keyboards, one electric bass and an electronic drum set. Future plans include wind and brass instruments.” One higher-up within the county’s probation department explains why they set up the studio: “Music is an outlet for expression and emotions. It provides an educational opportunity and introduction into the world of music, and it helps push the creative boundaries that our residents occasionally impose on themselves when they are housed in a detention facility and somewhat afraid to come out of their shells or show vulnerability. More importantly it’s something they want to do.” Here are some more details from the press release: “Juvenile Hall residents who express interest in the program are put on a roster and are assigned studio time. The program roster is incentive-based and a motivation for youth within the facility. … The studio was named Free Voices, following a facility-wide naming contest. The Probation Department is working with a local music professional as a consultant, who is making connections with the residents and assisting in the creation of unique music. The department is also seeking other industry professionals or community members who would like to volunteer and work with the program and the juvenile population.” (Source: Sonoma County Government)