MILWAUKEE - Some local veterans have been busy getting ready for a spot in the National Veterans Creative Arts Festival.

One category is music, and some local veterans say practicing is good for the soul.

TODAY’S TMJ4’s Carole Meekins met with a small sample of some of the talent at the Zablocki VA Medical Center.

The VA jam band was getting ready for a local competition. From the drums, to the keyboards, to the guitars, to the singers and the soundman, the veterans hit the right notes.

TODAY’S TMJ4’s Carole Meekins: “Brett, why do you think it’s important that people understand that music can actually help heal?”

"A real good healing effect. I love it. I enjoy doing it. It’s very therapeutic,” Veteran Brett Lindstrom said.

Performing strikes a chord with these men.

"I find my self being more patient, less demanding, tolerant of others, and a lot happier. I'm very happy when I play,” Veteran Randall Diem said.

The veterans say the program helps them mentally, physically and spiritually, and helps us understand the importance of caring for our veterans.

Often, our veterans face a host of problems, from substance abuse to depression, but these men are discovering the power of music, means the road to recovery is not as long.

“I hadn’t checked into this till I got into serious trouble and the music has kept me focused on the positives in my life instead of the negatives,” one veteran said.

About 130 local veterans last week competed for the National Veterans Creative Arts Festival which takes place this fall in Riverside, California.

The VA Medical Center showcases veterans' talent at a number of concerts throughout the year.