News
The plight of Syrian refugees seeking a safe haven in Canada has struck a chord with the talented young musicians of the New Brunswick Youth Orchestra. NBYO manager Kim Shields announced recently that voluntary donations would be solicited at the orchestra’s upcoming concert in Edmundston on Sunday, November 22. A similar appeal was made on October 25, at the orchestra’s performance in Bathurst. In addition, a number of NBYO musicians have volunteered to raise still more money for the cause by busking at the Saint John City Market farmers’ markets, and other public places during the days leading up to the concert.
According to Shields, herself a professional musician, such activities play an important role in the education of orchestra members.
“At NBYO,” she says, “our musicians learn much more than the notes on the page and the technique of their instruments; they learn to be responsible citizens. We understand how incredibly blessed we are to be born in Canada and to live a life which allows the NBYO to inspire excellence through musical achievement and through charitable causes. I am very happy that many of our musicians have taken time from their busy schedules to use their musical talent to make a difference in the lives of Syrian refugees.”
Funds raised will go to World Vision Canada, to be matched by an equal amount from the Government of Canada’s Syrian emergency relief fund.
The inspiration for the fund-raising project arose from a discussion during a rehearsal break, about the need for a collective response to the refugee crisis. One NBYO musician, originally from Germany, brought the reality of the need into sharp focus by describing the situation in her hometown. There, massive demonstrations have occurred in support of relief services.
The orchestra members have responded enthusiastically to the call for help. Many have volunteered to participate in busking activities, which are being promoted by banners and graphics announcing “NBYO for Syrian Refugees.”
This is by no means the first time the NBYO has worked in support of social causes. Previous efforts have generated support for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation--JDRF, the Canadian Cancer Society, the Canadian Red Cross, and support for tsunami victims.
The NBYO initiative has been warmly welcomed by World Vision Canada. Leanne Prescott is the organization’s youth and student engagement coach for Quebec and Atlantic Canada. She will participate in the Edmundston concert, setting up a display in the lobby of the concert venue and giving a brief presentation to the audience. She will also conduct a workshop for the musicians about the realities of the Syrian refugee situation, and the way the funds they raise will be put to use.
“Young people can make a difference in helping children living in extreme poverty and conflict situations around the world,” she says. “World Vision is grateful to the New Brunswick Youth Orchestra for investing in young leaders to be global citizens and for using their stage to encourage New Brunswick audiences to respond to the immediate needs of displaced Syrian children and their families.”
Contact:
Chief Operating Officer / Chef des opérations
New Brunswick Youth Orchestra
Orchestre des jeunes du Nouveau-Brunswick
Mobile: (506) 866-7920
