Tom Harrell is a world-renowned trumpeter who suffers from schizophrenia. While playing, and only while playing, all symptoms of his illness, disappear. Miraculously, the colorful bebop jazz tunes become a healing balm.
Harrell began building his jazz resume in the late ‘60s, touring with Stan Kenton’s big band, Horace Silver, Woody Herman and many others. He has led his own bands since the early ‘90s.
The Los Altos musician’s gigs are often hindered by his schizophrenia and those close to him often wonder if he can complete his stage performances.
Recently he took the stage at Yoshi’s jazz club in the East Bay. Friends were doubtful, but with the rhythmic tap of one foot, he cued his band, put his trumpet to his lips and the jazzy notes bounced off the walls. Naysayer’s looked on with amazement.
The healing power of music transcends the boundaries of music. Just as Tom Harrell relies on music to sooth his schizophrenia, San Quentin inmates and volunteers who participate in restorative justice programs rely on music to promote closure and healing from crime victimization.
Lorrain Taylor, whose twin sons were murdered, expressed her restoration through an original Gospel song, “Take a Stand,” which included audience participation for the chorus. Music often becomes a conduit for healing when tragedy has struck devastating ways.
