A movement to celebrate the beauty of music in a spirit of inclusiveness.
Me2/ exists because we live in a world where people with mental illnesses are stigmatized and discriminated against. Our rehearsals and performances create opportunities for us to educate people about the realities of living with mental illnesses and support those who are seeking treatment. It’s a great way for musicians of all ages and ability levels to create social change.
Our focus is on classical music, although we occasionally include music from other genres. We enjoy stripping away the elitism that surrounds most classical music performances. Our goal is to create an environment where people can really enjoy themselves. This can take place in an orchestra, a chorus, or a smaller ensemble like a flute choir.
Over the years we have rehearsed in places as varied as shopping malls, retirement homes, and community centers. We perform in traditional venues such as recital halls and churches, as well as non-traditional places including prisons, treatment centers, hospitals, and youth centers. We often find ourselves performing in gymnasiums, right under the basketball hoop.
Our performances include great music interspersed with compelling stories about life with mental illness. At a typical concert we might share some works by Beethoven and Haydn, as well as brief testimonials from musicians living with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or depression. Every performance includes a Q&A when the audience can ask us anything. Topics usually include music, mental health, and at least one question about the bassoon (‘that tall instrument’).
No auditions. No fees. No stigma. Join us and share your gifts in an inclusive, stigma-free ensemble – or start your own!
Me2/ (“me, too”) is the world’s only classical music organization created for individuals with mental illnesses and the people who support them. Me2/ is a nonprofit, 501c3 organization with programs in Boston MA, Burlington VT, and Manchester NH, as well as affiliates launching in additional states.
Me2/
Schrafft’s City Center
529 Main St, Ste 103
Charlestown, MA 02129
info@me2music.org
(802) 238-8369