A shared love of classical music and a desire to give back inspired two Year 11 students from North Sydney Boys High School to found a student orchestra and use their debut concert to raise funds for the Australian Children’s Music Foundation.
The Bokonon Orchestra gave their first ever performance to an audience of about 200 people at Pitt Street Uniting Church on Sunday 2nd August, raising over $2,500 for the Australian Children’s Music Foundation. The orchestra brought together nearly 50 secondary and tertiary music students who wanted to use their talents to help others.
“Coming from someone who has had the privilege of accessing music education from an early age, we truly believe the ACMF’s mission in giving that opportunity to those who otherwise wouldn’t have it is inspirational, and important for the growth and happiness of children,” said Terrence Fan, who is a clarinet player and the orchestra’s co-founder and Director of Operations.
“When Tim [the conductor] and I were creating the orchestra, we really liked the idea of giving back directly to music education in Australia.”
Even the repertoire reflected this mission, featuring Tchaikovsky’s Slavonic March which was composed for a charity concert in Moscow in 1876.
Schools organising a fundraiser for The Australian Children’s Music Foundation is rewarding for both the students and the foundation. Students get the opportunity to use their skills to make a positive impact, to reflect on what they value, and to put their values into action by working together and taking the lead.
For Terrence and his orchestra peers, organising and playing at their concert was a meaningful experience.
“Music is such an important part of all of our lives, whether it’s at school, in external orchestras or even just as a hobby and a source of enjoyment. Playing in an orchestra with like-minded musicians is very rewarding, and it allows you to build lifelong friendships and memories.”
If your school is interested in hosting a fundraiser for The Australian Children’s Music Foundation, please visit our Fundraise for Us page and reach out to [email protected] to find out how we can support you.
