Our Mission: Healing Through Music & AI
Bridging the gap between military service and civilian life through the universal language of music and cutting-edge technology
The Story Behind Songs to Strings
Thomas James
Founder & Lead Instructor, Combat Veteran, Clinical Social Worker
“For years, the loudest thing in my life was the silence—the silence of things left unsaid, of experiences I couldn’t share, of a war that followed me home and set up camp in my mind.”
As both a combat veteran and a clinical social worker, I understood trauma from both sides of the therapy room. But traditional therapy wasn’t enough. The words got stuck, the pain remained locked inside.
Then I discovered the power of music combined with AI technology. What started as picking up a guitar became a journey into using LLMs, Suno AI, and modern production tools. Suddenly, I could transform my experiences into songs—giving voice to what couldn’t be spoken.
Songs to Strings is a one-person mission of love. As the sole instructor and coordinator, I personally guide each veteran through their journey. This isn’t a limitation—it’s intentional. By keeping cohorts small (10-12 veterans), I can provide personalized attention, build genuine relationships, and ensure no one gets lost in the system.
The beauty of AI tools is they become your 24/7 support team. While I sleep, ChatGPT helps you write. While I’m teaching another session, Suno AI helps you produce. This hybrid model—human connection plus AI assistance—creates a support system that’s both personal and always available.
Our Threefold Mission
1. Democratize Music Creation
Break down barriers to music production using free AI tools. No expensive equipment, no years of training—just your story and the power of technology.
2. Process Trauma Creatively
Transform the chaos of PTSD into structured musical narratives. Give veterans a new language to express experiences that words alone cannot capture.
3. Bridge Military-Civilian Divide
Create understanding between veterans and civilians through shared creative experiences. Music becomes the universal translator for military experiences.
Our Core Values
No One Left Behind
Every veteran deserves access to healing tools, regardless of ability to pay
Innovation First
Leverage cutting-edge AI to make professional music production accessible
Strength in Community
Battle buddies, peer support, and shared experiences amplify healing
Mission-Focused
Clear objectives, measurable outcomes, and commitment to excellence
Our Growing Impact
Why AI Changes Everything
🤖 LLMs as Co-Writers
ChatGPT and Claude become your writing partners, helping transform raw emotions into polished lyrics. They never judge, never tire, and are available 24/7 to help you find the perfect words for your experience.
🎵 Suno AI: Instant Production
Turn your lyrics into fully produced songs in minutes. No need for expensive studios or years of training—Suno AI generates professional instrumentals, vocals, and arrangements from simple text prompts.
🎚️ AI Mastering Tools
Professional mastering that rivals $10,000 studio sessions, all through AI. Achieve radio-ready LUFS levels, perfect EQ balance, and commercial loudness without leaving your home.
The Revolution: What once required thousands of dollars in equipment and years of training can now be accomplished with free AI tools and your willingness to share your story. This isn’t about replacing human creativity—it’s about amplifying it, making it accessible to every veteran who needs to be heard.
The Road Ahead
We’re building something revolutionary—one cohort at a time, one veteran at a time, one song at a time.
đź“… January 2026
Launch our inaugural cohort with 10-12 veterans, proving the model and refining the curriculum based on real feedback.
🎯 Year One Goals
Graduate 50+ veterans, establish 501(c)(3) status, and secure sustainable funding through grants and partnerships.
🚀 Long-Term Vision
Become the premier AI-music therapy program for veterans nationwide, with alumni mentoring new cohorts.
How You Can Help
Spread the Word
Share our mission with veterans who could benefit and organizations that might support us.
Join as a Civilian
Your $97 enrollment directly funds a veteran’s spot while you learn alongside them.
Donate or Partner
Help us achieve 501(c)(3) status and ensure no veteran pays for healing.
Join Our Mission
Help us transform trauma into triumph, one song at a time