Peterborough Musicfest Launches First Note to Put Instruments into Children’s Hands
PETERBOROUGH, ON – Peterborough Musicfest is putting instruments into children’s hands with the launch of First Note, a new free program designed to inspire the next generation of musicians through hands-on music experiences before select concerts at Del Crary Park.
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. No registration, lessons or previous musical experience is required— participants are encouraged to simply drop in, explore and play before enjoying an evening of live music.
Offered before four Peterborough Musicfest concerts throughout August, First Note gives children and youth the opportunity to discover music through hands-on exploration before experiencing the excitement of live performances on the Fred Anderson Stage.
Made possible through the generous support of the Peterborough Foundation, and with instruments provided by Long & McQuade Musical Instruments, First Note
reflects the power of community partnerships to create new opportunities for young people.
“The Peterborough Foundation is proud to partner with Peterborough Musicfest to help bring First Note to life,” said Shirl Delarue, Board Chair, Peterborough Foundation. “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. We’re excited to see the impact it will have in our community.”
First Note reflects Peterborough Musicfest’s commitment to making music accessible —not only by presenting free concerts, but by creating opportunities for young people to experience the excitement of making music themselves.
“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.”
First Note will take place on:
• Saturday, August 1
• Wednesday, August 5
• Saturday, August 8
• Wednesday, August 12
from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Del Crary Park.
Participation is free. Children and youth are invited to drop in anytime during program hours—no registration or previous musical experience required.
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ABOUT PETERBOROUGH MUSICFEST
Peterborough Musicfest is funded by corporate sponsorships – most of those being locally owned businesses – multiple levels of government support, fundraising initiatives and private donations. As a result, it has been, and steadfastly remains, a uniquely free admission event. Dallas Green, Little River Band, Metric, Our Lady Peace, Serena Ryder, Gordon Lightfoot, Down With Webster, Terri Clark, and Blue Rodeo are just a few of the sensational music acts that have appeared over the years.
Overseen by Executive Director Tracey Randall and staff, and a board of directors, Peterborough Musicfest’s stated mission is to “provide diverse, affordable live music to enrich cultural and economic prosperity in our community.” In order to fulfill this mandate and keep attracting legendary musicians to our stage, Peterborough Musicfest encourages any individual or business interested in sponsoring the festival to reach out at [email protected] or phone 705-755-1111.