Music is a critical part of every child’s social, emotional, physical and behavioural development. It encourages creativity, imagination and self-expression, develops literacy and numeracy, increases confidence and self-esteem and most importantly, brings joy, happiness and pride. However, for those students deprived of access to a music education, they are never exposed to the crucial benefits of music and the arts for their health and wellbeing. In order to bridge the gap between the disadvantaged and advantaged, students must have an equal chance to experience the magic of music in their education.
All across Australia, our dedicated team of teachers motivate, educate and inspire disadvantaged children and youth in free, long-term music programs. Our programs involve a variety of musical experiences, such as percussion, drumming, singing and guitar tuition. As part of our program, we donate musical instruments to schools for the students, to be kept and enjoyed after the end of the program. Our programs are designed in partnership with each school or juvenile justice centre, to meet the specific needs of the students. Programs improve mental health and engagement with learning. Significant outcomes include improvements in literacy and numeracy skills, behaviour and school attendance.