
testimonials
"In this honest and revealing biography Stephen invites us into the many corners of his life, some tough and heartbreaking, others joyful and inspiring. Throughout it all he uses music and the creation of songs to weave these rich experiences together to form a very moving account of a life dedicated to supporting others. Despite being the founder and inspiration behind the success of Fischy Music he writes candidly about his own fears and doubts and shares a great deal of insights into his own philosophy…and his humanity. The book reveals a man dedicated to supporting young people in creative and innovative ways and a very, very human being devoted to the search for beauty and love through kindness, music and song. Prepare to be inspired."
— Bob Heath Music Therapist, Musician
"My first scientific study on singing and wellbeing was conducted 25 years ago and published in 2001. Since that time, I have followed the development of research in this field, and today thousands of studies demonstrating the value of group singing for wellbeing and health can be found in the academic literature. There is still a dearth of serious research studies on singing and wellbeing for children, however, and Stephen’s provides a wealth of evidence grounded in experience, observation and personal testimonies which overwhelmingly demonstrates the value of music-making and singing for children. I cannot praise this book too highly!"
— Stephen Clift Professor Emeritus,
Canterbury Christ Church University
"Stephen Fischbacher’s book 'These Are My Emotions' is a celebration of love, loss, grief, hope, self-acceptance and faith, all set against the backdrop of the power of music. At its heart is the belief that songs have work to do in helping children understand themselves and each other, assisting them in understanding what they are going through is not unique and that they are never alone. The story charts the rise of Fischy Music from its initial early stages to the successful charity that it is today, sharing the positive impact it has had on children across the world, empowering them to name their feelings and enabling them to relate to one another. This is a book that speaks to both heart and mind, and one I believe many will connect and resonate with and I would recommend it to anyone working with children."
— Richard Napier Head Teacher
Balgreen Primary School
"As a psychotherapist, I have seen over and over again that music, art, writing - all forms of self-expression - can often unlock buried, traumatic feelings and provide release and containment for clients. Helping children to find their voice, to articulate and name their feelings through song, and then sing it out, is a part of Stephen and the Fischy Music team’s mission. They have made this happen - not in some flash, high profile way, but by working steadily as one amongst us. This book is the story of that work - how and why it started. It is a story to encourage and inspire others. It is, I can assure you, well worth the read."
— Jonathan Wood (formerly National Manager for Place2be in Scotland, Psychotherapist, Musician
"As a dedicated follower of Fischy Music for many years it's a true blessing to have this latest wee gift from Stephen Fischbacher giving new and deep insight into the stories behind the songs. Full of wit, wisdom and deeply moving, this book only makes me even more of a Fischy fan."
— Rev Kate Bottley Vicar, Broadcaster, Author
