Peterborough Musicfest Putting Instruments In The Hands Of Young Musicians

By Scott Arnold

A new Peterborough Musicfest program is giving children and youth the chance to discover the joy of making music before select concerts at Del Crary Park this August.

Launching Saturday, August 1, First Note invites children and youth to discover the joy of making music by exploring a variety of instruments in a fun, welcoming environment (photo by scott arnold)

First Note officially launches Saturday, Aug. 1, offering young musicians an opportunity to explore a variety of instruments in a fun, welcoming environment before enjoying a night of live music.

The free hands-on program requires no registration, lessons or previous musical experience. Children and youth can simply drop in, try an instrument and experience the excitement of making music for themselves.

The idea behind First Note has been years in the making for Peterborough Musicfest, with the goal of creating more opportunities for young people to connect with music.

"One of the things we've talked about for years is finding more ways to put instruments into children's hands," said Tracey Randall, Executive Director of Peterborough Musicfest. "Not every young person has the opportunity to explore music at school or at home, and sometimes all it takes is one experience to spark a lifelong passion. We often ask, 'Where's our next Serena Ryder?' Maybe First Note is where that journey begins."

The program is made possible through support from the Peterborough Foundation, with instruments provided by Long & McQuade Musical Instruments.

“By creating free, hands-on music experiences for children and youth, this program removes barriers to participation and opens the door to creativity, confidence and the joy of making music,” said Shirl Delarue, Board Chair of the Peterborough Foundation.

First Note will take place before four Peterborough Musicfest concerts on Aug. 1, 5, 8 and 12 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Del Crary Park.

Children and youth are invited to drop in anytime during program hours.

Scott Arnold is a Journalist and Content Creator at PTBOCanada Media Inc

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