Program helps veterans in north central West Virginia learn guitar for free

CLARKSBURG, W.Va. (WBOY) — Ahead of Memorial Day, a local organization is showing its appreciation for veterans through the power of music.

Established eight years ago, “Veterans with Guitars” is exactly what it sounds like—a program that teaches those who’ve served in the armed forces the fundamentals of playing guitar, with the instructors also being veterans themselves.

Over time, the program has grown in popularity, spreading to the communities of Shinnston, Fairmont, Morgantown, Buckhannon, Parkersburg and Clarksburg.

At the Clarksburg VFW on Tuesday, veteran and instructor Jim Snyder spoke with 12 News on those who attend his class of seven.

“We just tell them, ‘Play to your ability, or keep coming back’ and sometimes they amaze themselves. We never give up on a student, they’re more than welcome. I have some students that might not learn three or four chords, but they’ll sit there and strum all day. That’s fine, you’re more than welcome. Matter of fact we enjoy that,” said Snyder.

Those who take lessons begin with learning 10 basic chords that are played on the first five frets. From there, it’s on to power chords, rhythm patterns, time scales and for Snyder’s class—songwriting.

Though with the excitement of learning a new instrument, nothing beats the bond it can create.

“If you ask any of the students, it’s the comradery and it’s the two hours out of a busy day. You just forget about everything; all you do is concentrate on music and making sounds and having a good time and things of that nature. A lot of good friendships are forged in this program, so, it’s almost like a family,” said Snyder.

12 News also spoke with Richie Logan, a student of Veterans with Guitars for two years now.

“We’re all different, but we all have a common goal, to learn how to play this guitar and so, even though, I mean other than the guitar we may have nothing to talk about, but talking about the guitar is a lot to talk about so it breaks the ice, you know. It’s something fun to do,” said Logan.

Those enrolled in the program receive guitars, cases and playing accessories for free, courtesy of locally owned music shops. After 15 weeks of the program, those who finish receive a graduate guitar, which is a Fender acoustic-electric this year.

If you’re a veteran and interested in joining Veterans with Guitars, you can do so by reaching out to the Louis A. Johnson Medical Center’s Patient Recreation & Rehabilitation Services or Volunteer Services at 304-623-3461 extension 3669.

If you’re currently a patient of the Louis A. Johnson Medical Center, you can ask your primary care physician for assistance with getting involved in the program as well.

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