Finding Healing Through Music at Bay Pines VA
By Michael Brock, Public Affairs Specialist
At the Bay Pines VA Healthcare System, healing is not limited to medicine alone. For many Veterans, it also comes through music.
“The Music Ministry exists to create moments of healing and hope for Veterans through the power of music,” said Bay Pines VA Chaplain William Priddis. “Our mission is to extend the VA motto — to care for those who have served — by adding two simple but powerful words: through music.”
Through the Music Ministry, Veterans are given opportunities to learn instruments, write songs, and express emotions that are often difficult to put into words. According to Priddis, music offers more than comfort — it provides connection.
“Music isn’t just entertainment,” he said. “It’s a therapeutic tool that helps Veterans process stress, grief, and trauma while restoring a sense of purpose and belonging.”
Music Ministry visits are Veteran-centered and flexible, designed to meet individuals where they are — physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Sessions may take place in the C.W. Bill Young VA Medical Center Campus Chaplain Services Suite or another space on campus where a Veteran feels most comfortable.
“These are not church services and there is no preaching,” Priddis explained. “This is about walking alongside Veterans and giving them a safe space to heal through creativity and self-expression.”
One of the most powerful examples of the program’s impact involved an Army Veteran who had just learned his mother was critically ill. Overwhelmed with grief, he turned to music as an outlet. Together with Priddis, he wrote a song that captured his pain, love, and resilience.
“That song became a tangible expression of his heart when words alone weren’t enough,” Priddis said.
After his mother’s passing, the song was later shared with fellow Veterans and staff, creating a moment of shared understanding and healing.
“In that room, music reminded him, and all of us, that he was not alone,” Priddis added.
The Music Ministry is open to all Veterans receiving care at Bay Pines VA, regardless of musical experience. Veterans can learn guitar or piano, explore songwriting, or even join a forming Veteran band.
“Every Veteran has a story,” Priddis said. “Music gives them a voice, and sometimes, it gives them hope.”
If you are interested in learning more about Music Ministry, please stop by the C.W. Bill Young VA Medical Center Campus Chaplain Services Suite in building 2, room 109 or call