Striking a Chord

Music can heal invisible wounds. As singer-songwriter Nell Bryden tours Iraq, we see firsthand the joy and relief the music brings the troops serving there. Striking a Chord brings home the power of music to help soldiers combat the scourge of Post-Traumatic-Stress-Syndrome.

Striking a Chord brings the audience right into the army bases in Iraq. The film shows the boredom and isolation, the effect of repeated deployments on the soldiers, and the need to create experiences that bring the troops some consolation. Through the prism of the music, viewers see the soldiers in a different light. The music creates openness, connectedness and intimacy. Long lines of soldiers waiting to speak with Nell and the band after every concert attest to the effect of the music on the troops.

Most importantly, Striking a Chord reminds us that when our soldiers return home, they need special care and attention. PTSD is a disorder that many veterans are ashamed to speak about. Yet it’s all too common, and, as the film shows, music can provide a way to begin the healing process.

The film is launching in 2010.