For Sarah, a dedicated music teacher, music has always been a “dear friend.” It’s a way to express every emotion and tell a story. It’s a feeling she shares with her students at the Sandgate Recital. “I encourage my students to connect music to their own experiences, as if they are telling a story to a friend. As a result, a joyful piece can amplify their happiness, while a melancholic one can help carry the weight of their sadness.” What began as a way to give young musicians a supportive space to perform has now become a powerful force for good, raising vital funds to support the next generation through the Australian Children’s Music Foundation (ACMF).
A Shared Mission
The Sandgate Recital started in early 2024 as a series of concerts born out of goodwill. Sarah and her fellow teachers wanted to align the recitals with a charitable cause. They wanted the cause to resonate with their goal of nurturing young people through music. “ACMF provides a positive impact on children and youth, and it gives the students a direct and meaningful way to support peers their own age.”
The Transformative Power of Music
Sarah sees the transformative power of music every day. “Whenever a student masters a piece they love or produces a beautiful sound on the piano, I can see a small celebration within them,” she says. This process, full of trial and eventual success, teaches young people that growth takes time and that mistakes are simply part of the journey. In music, as Sarah likes to say, there’s no such thing as failure. “Even a wrong note can be called “jazz.” This mindset helps build resilience and a positive attitude that extends well beyond the classroom.
Join Us and Make a Difference
The next Sandgate Recital is scheduled for Saturday, November 15th, in Brisbane. If you’re in the area, please drop by and be part of the audience. If you’d like to support the recital from afar, you can make a donation at https://shoutforgood.com/fundraisers/holmes-sandgate-charity-recital.
Inspired to Fundraise?
According to Sarah, “Fundraising for ACMF is a powerful way to support the next generation. It’s not just about music lessons; it’s about giving children something deeply meaningful – food for the soul. It’s about giving them confidence and a lifelong emotional companion.” You too can become a champion for children’s music education. To get started, visit our fundraising page and find out how you can use your passion to change lives through music: https://acmf.com.au/fundraise-for-us/
