COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – Two local churches have partnered creating a program to change the narrative for kids on the north side of Columbus.

Kids as young as 11 are learning to read, write and produce music. According to Taelor Gray, pastor at Linden Life Fellowship, amplifying voices, stories, and the experiences of youth in Columbus is the heart behind “Sounds of Linden.” 

This music-based program is helping kids to use their voices and their creativity to make change. Every Saturday kids ages 11 to 17 meet at the Linden Community Center. They learn music production, engineering, and get to creatively express themselves through writing.

Pastor Gray said it’s time to change the narrative, starting with making our kids the top priority again. 

“For me, I’m an artist. As much as I love pastoring and preaching and teaching, creativity and music are my outlets,” he said. “I know that’s something younger folks are always trying to figure out for themselves. How to express their voice and their creativity.”

“So long story short, we decided to create a program to amplify their voices to hear what they’re saying to see what they’re seeing to see what they’re experiencing, and also be there to give guidance and support for what they’re trying to create,” Gray said. 

Organizers said it’s imperative for kids to feel supported in a community that is not always seen in a positive light. Pastor Gray said they’re always looking for volunteers and schools to open their doors to these kids.

Programs like “Sounds of Linden” can be expensive when it comes to purchasing new instruments and equipment, but funding has been provided by New Salem Baptist Church, on Cleveland Avenue. 

Eric Rollin, program director for “Sounds of Linden” and director for “Use Your Ears Columbus”, a program committed to helping kids use their creativity with music, said pouring into the youth in this way is a gift that keeps on giving. 

“I love it! I think it’s absolutely incredible. I think it’s very important that youth understand what music is and what music does when it comes to sounds, vibrations, and frequencies all around us,” he said. “I think it’s really important they know how it works, and how it can be used and how it is used. Our organization is dedicated to teaching them how that happens in our world.”

“Sounds of Linden” runs until March 9, 2024. Information on getting your kids involved can be found here.