About Empower kids. Build community.

Playing and singing together teaches us to create a community out of very diverse parts – to co-operate, to collaborate and to build something beautiful and bigger than our individual selves.

OverviewOrKidstra is a social development program for kids

OrKidstra is an Ottawa-based social development program that empowers kids, ages 5-18, from under-served communities by teaching life skills – such as teamwork, commitment, respect and pride in achievement – through the universal language of music. With the passionate belief in the transformative power of music, OrKidstra started with 27 children in 2007 and now includes 650 children and youth, both in-school* and after-school, from over 62 linguistic and cultural backgrounds.

OrKidstra is a registered charity (# 83246 7153 RR0001). 

*Funded by the school boards (OCDSB).

Mission

Our mission is to empower kids and build community through the universal language of music.

We do this by providing children from low-income families with free instruments and music lessons, which gives them the chance to learn important life skills through playing and singing together.

Vision

Our vision is a future where all children and youth have the opportunity to discover their voice and build their potential through music.

Mandate

Our mandate is to give children from under-served communities the opportunity to learn and make music together, and the chance to benefit from the individual skills and community values inherent in music making.

Philosophy & InspirationCitizenship through musicianship

Our Philosophy

OrKidstra brings the joys and challenges of making music together to children who might otherwise be left out.

OrKidstra is far more than a music program – it is first and foremost a social development program, giving children a sense of belonging and achievement while fostering important life skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, responsibility, creativity, dedication and communication. 

Our Sistema-inspired Philosophy:

  • Create extensive and intensive community connections.
  • Kid-powered performance; passion over precision.
  • Playing together teaches kids how to build a harmonious community.
  • Encourage peer-to-peer structure, which breaks down barriers and fosters friendship.
  • Create a sense of belonging with joy and fun.

The skills I learned at OrKidstra were more than just playing instruments: music helped me develop teamwork skills, increase self-confidence and build life-long friendships.

Ngoc Kim

OrKidstra graduate, fourth-year university commerce student

Our Inspiration

OrKidstra was inspired by the idea that music can be an agent of social change.

Tina Fedeski, Margaret Tobolowska, and Gary McMillen founded OrKidstra in 2007. Originally known as The Leading Note Foundation as well as OrKidstra, the Ottawa-based organization was the first El Sistema-inspired program outside of South America. At the heart of OrKidstra is the beautiful combination of musicianship and citizenship, which encourages kids from under-served communities to find their voice through music.

Sistema Music for social change

The principles of El Sistema are simple: children from low-income and under-served areas are given an instrument as soon as they can hold it. Tuition, instruments, and music are all provided free of charge. In return, each child commits to playing in an ensemble. The program emphasizes community building, cooperation, friendship, discipline, trust, commitment, compassion, respect, and self-esteem.

The philosophy of El Sistema has inspired hundreds of similar programs, which serve an estimated over one million children in at least sixty countries around the world. Please visit the Sistema Global website, The World (WE) Ensemble website, or watch the documentary Teaching the Life of Music which follows El Sistema’s impact for more information.

Please click here for a statement from OrKidstra on El Sistema Venezuela.

Sistema-inspired programs now exist in at least 65 countries all around the world: here are a few examples of these.

Canadian Programs
American Programs
International Programs

Board of Directors

ChairPaul Wells

Award-winning author, journalist and frequent commentator on CBC’s Power & Politics and The National’s At Issue panel; music lover and trumpet player.

“Getting to know OrKidstra has been one of the best things to happen to me in recent years. It’s a fantastic organization, thanks to the students, their families, and our wonderful instructors and staff. I look forward to helping OrKidstra grow so it can help even more young people reach their potential.” – Paul Wells

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ChairPaul Wells

Award-winning author, journalist and frequent commentator on CBC’s Power & Politics and The National’s At Issue panel; music lover and trumpet player.

“Getting to know OrKidstra has been one of the best things to happen to me in recent years. It’s a fantastic organization, thanks to the students, their families, and our wonderful instructors and staff. I look forward to helping OrKidstra grow so it can help even more young people reach their potential.” – Paul Wells

Vice-ChairRiaz Mohammed

Riaz has 33 years of teaching experience with the Ottawa Carleton District School Board where he has taught all subjects and grades 2-8 during his career. He has direct experience working with special needs students and new Canadians as they settle into their new learning environment.

Riaz has a passion for community involvement and is a dedicated volunteer. He coached minor hockey, coached, convened and served as an Executive member for Canterbury Soccer, served as a member of the Alta Vista Community Association and coordinates volunteer “Rink Ratz” for his community outdoor rink. He enjoys camping and canoeing, playing hockey, guitar and singing in the Ottawa Carleton Choristers teachers’ choir since 2001. He is the proud father of two happily musical kids.

Riaz sought out working with OrKidstra because it is a perfect marriage of his love of music and teaching. He helped bring OrKidstra to his high-needs school, understanding the power and joy of learning to sing and play music together with others. “I look forward to helping bring Orkidstra to students in Ottawa who might not otherwise have access to music programming.”

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Vice-ChairRiaz Mohammed

Riaz has 33 years of teaching experience with the Ottawa Carleton District School Board where he has taught all subjects and grades 2-8 during his career. He has direct experience working with special needs students and new Canadians as they settle into their new learning environment.

Riaz has a passion for community involvement and is a dedicated volunteer. He coached minor hockey, coached, convened and served as an Executive member for Canterbury Soccer, served as a member of the Alta Vista Community Association and coordinates volunteer “Rink Ratz” for his community outdoor rink. He enjoys camping and canoeing, playing hockey, guitar and singing in the Ottawa Carleton Choristers teachers’ choir since 2001. He is the proud father of two happily musical kids.

Riaz sought out working with OrKidstra because it is a perfect marriage of his love of music and teaching. He helped bring OrKidstra to his high-needs school, understanding the power and joy of learning to sing and play music together with others. “I look forward to helping bring Orkidstra to students in Ottawa who might not otherwise have access to music programming.”

SecretaryChayanika Abeysekera Lutes

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Chayanika Abeysekera Lutes is an Economist at Statistics Canada, a “lifelong learner” with a Bachelor of Commerce and a Master of Development Economics, a mom and an avid traveler with a passion for community development. Her knowledge of social development issues in Ottawa, social data analysis and social enterprise brings valuable skills to OrKidstra’s Board of Directors.

“From my very first experience at an OrKidstra concert, I knew it was a family that I wanted to be a part of. Social development through music education embodies so much of what I am passionate about, and I am thrilled for the opportunity to bring my experiences and perspectives to this exceptional organization.” – Chayanika Abeysekera Lutes

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SecretaryChayanika Abeysekera Lutes

LinkedIn

Chayanika Abeysekera Lutes is an Economist at Statistics Canada, a “lifelong learner” with a Bachelor of Commerce and a Master of Development Economics, a mom and an avid traveler with a passion for community development. Her knowledge of social development issues in Ottawa, social data analysis and social enterprise brings valuable skills to OrKidstra’s Board of Directors.

“From my very first experience at an OrKidstra concert, I knew it was a family that I wanted to be a part of. Social development through music education embodies so much of what I am passionate about, and I am thrilled for the opportunity to bring my experiences and perspectives to this exceptional organization.” – Chayanika Abeysekera Lutes

TreasurerMarie-Josée Lambert, MSc, CFA

Ms. Lambert holds an MSc in Administration (Finance) and is a Chartered Financial Analyst with strong skills in strategic planning, governance and finance policy. She is a Senior Director in the Investment, Partnerships and Innovation Branch of Infrastructure Canada.

«Offrir l’apprentissage de la musique aux enfants, c’est insuffler l’espoir et le sentiment que tout est possible. Je suis honorée de siéger au conseil d’administration d’OrKidstra, et de contribuer de toutes les manières possibles au succès de cette organisation dynamique et en pleine croissance qui fait une réelle différence dans la vie des enfants qu’elle touche. »

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TreasurerMarie-Josée Lambert, MSc, CFA

Ms. Lambert holds an MSc in Administration (Finance) and is a Chartered Financial Analyst with strong skills in strategic planning, governance and finance policy. She is a Senior Director in the Investment, Partnerships and Innovation Branch of Infrastructure Canada.

«Offrir l’apprentissage de la musique aux enfants, c’est insuffler l’espoir et le sentiment que tout est possible. Je suis honorée de siéger au conseil d’administration d’OrKidstra, et de contribuer de toutes les manières possibles au succès de cette organisation dynamique et en pleine croissance qui fait une réelle différence dans la vie des enfants qu’elle touche. »

Board MemberSalim Charabati

Lebanon-born architect with expertise in strategic planning, operations and project management. Member of the U of O Executive MBA team, which advised OrKidstra on market development opportunities in 2015. Came to Canada in 2014 with his wife to raise a family. OrKidstra volunteer since 2015.

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Board MemberSalim Charabati

Lebanon-born architect with expertise in strategic planning, operations and project management. Member of the U of O Executive MBA team, which advised OrKidstra on market development opportunities in 2015. Came to Canada in 2014 with his wife to raise a family. OrKidstra volunteer since 2015.

Board MemberCathy Doolan

Cathy is happily retired after a long career as counsel with the Department of Justice focusing on human rights and social policy law.

Cathy enjoys volunteering with non-profit organizations in the education and healthcare sectors, including in the Ottawa Network for Education classroom and teaching piano through the Heart of the City Piano Program. She has also been a Board member with two Community Health Care Centres in Ottawa and sits on a Provincial advisory council for patients and caregivers.

In 2019, Cathy “graduated” from the OrKidstra Teaching Artist Training Workshop, where she learned about the ideals that inform Sistema-inspired programs and experienced firsthand the positive impact that music can have on children, their families, and the community.

“I will be forever grateful for the piano lessons I had many years ago. Every child deserves to have music in their lives, and I am very excited to be part of the OrKidstra family and support its vision to give children in under-served communities the chance to learn and make music together.”

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Board MemberCathy Doolan

Cathy is happily retired after a long career as counsel with the Department of Justice focusing on human rights and social policy law.

Cathy enjoys volunteering with non-profit organizations in the education and healthcare sectors, including in the Ottawa Network for Education classroom and teaching piano through the Heart of the City Piano Program. She has also been a Board member with two Community Health Care Centres in Ottawa and sits on a Provincial advisory council for patients and caregivers.

In 2019, Cathy “graduated” from the OrKidstra Teaching Artist Training Workshop, where she learned about the ideals that inform Sistema-inspired programs and experienced firsthand the positive impact that music can have on children, their families, and the community.

“I will be forever grateful for the piano lessons I had many years ago. Every child deserves to have music in their lives, and I am very excited to be part of the OrKidstra family and support its vision to give children in under-served communities the chance to learn and make music together.”

Board MemberJeff Heynen

Graduate of Johns Hopkins University and Senior Public Servant and with expertise in US/Canada trade issues and in transport policy. Has worked in Ottawa and Iqaluit, and with the UN Mission to Kosovo. Resident of Centretown and OrKidstra volunteer since 2015. Enjoys playing jazz and classical piano.

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Board MemberJeff Heynen

Graduate of Johns Hopkins University and Senior Public Servant and with expertise in US/Canada trade issues and in transport policy. Has worked in Ottawa and Iqaluit, and with the UN Mission to Kosovo. Resident of Centretown and OrKidstra volunteer since 2015. Enjoys playing jazz and classical piano.

Board MemberSean McGee

Sean is an Lawyer/Avocat at RavenLaw, Raven, Cameron, Ballantine & Yasbeck LLP/SRL. Fluently bilingual, Sean is a Past President of l’Association des juristes d’expression française de l’Ontario. His major outside interest is music: playing frequent gigs in two bands and with the Nellotones.

“Music, and the skills, the joy and the relationships that come with it, are benefits that can be enjoyed in youth and for a lifetime. I am happy to be able to help OrKidstra continue its outstanding work, bringing all of these benefits to youth in the Ottawa area.” – Sean McGee

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Board MemberSean McGee

Sean is an Lawyer/Avocat at RavenLaw, Raven, Cameron, Ballantine & Yasbeck LLP/SRL. Fluently bilingual, Sean is a Past President of l’Association des juristes d’expression française de l’Ontario. His major outside interest is music: playing frequent gigs in two bands and with the Nellotones.

“Music, and the skills, the joy and the relationships that come with it, are benefits that can be enjoyed in youth and for a lifetime. I am happy to be able to help OrKidstra continue its outstanding work, bringing all of these benefits to youth in the Ottawa area.” – Sean McGee

Board MemberShirley Westeinde

Shirley Westeinde is the President of Westeinde Properties Ltd., a Property Holding Company. She is a graduate of the Victoria Hospital School of Nursing in London, Ontario and the University of Western Ontario.

Although graduating as a nurse, Shirley and her husband incorporated Westeinde Construction Ltd. in 1978. Over the years the company-built hospitals, schools, office buildings, and Embassies in Ottawa, across Canada, and Internationally.

The Westeinde employees were encouraged to build buildings with pride and ownership, but also to help build their community. Shirley led by example and has been involved in numerous business and volunteer Boards over her career. She was the first female Chair of the Canadian Construction Association, of the Ottawa Building Owner Managers Association, and of the Ottawa-Carleton Economic Development Corporation. She has been the Chair of Algonquin College the Royal Ottawa Research Institute, and The Mayor’s Task Force on Affordable Housing.

She was also Co-Chair with Dr. Robert Cushman of Success by 6, a United Way Program instituted to find programs that would embellish the lives of children under 6 growing up in underprivileged areas. Other organizations included Child and Youth Friendly Ottawa, Dandelion Dance, Roots of Empathy, and Operation Come Home. OrKidstra is a highlight of the programs that that she has been involved in, that are offered to assist children to have an opportunity to succeed in life with their hopes and dreams for the future, on the same level as their peers.

Shirley has received many Awards over the years, including the YWCA Woman of Distinction Award, The Women’s Business Achievement Award, an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Ottawa, an Honorary Degree from Algonquin College, a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Ottawa Board of Trade, and the Order of Canada.

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Board MemberShirley Westeinde

Shirley Westeinde is the President of Westeinde Properties Ltd., a Property Holding Company. She is a graduate of the Victoria Hospital School of Nursing in London, Ontario and the University of Western Ontario.

Although graduating as a nurse, Shirley and her husband incorporated Westeinde Construction Ltd. in 1978. Over the years the company-built hospitals, schools, office buildings, and Embassies in Ottawa, across Canada, and Internationally.

The Westeinde employees were encouraged to build buildings with pride and ownership, but also to help build their community. Shirley led by example and has been involved in numerous business and volunteer Boards over her career. She was the first female Chair of the Canadian Construction Association, of the Ottawa Building Owner Managers Association, and of the Ottawa-Carleton Economic Development Corporation. She has been the Chair of Algonquin College the Royal Ottawa Research Institute, and The Mayor’s Task Force on Affordable Housing.

She was also Co-Chair with Dr. Robert Cushman of Success by 6, a United Way Program instituted to find programs that would embellish the lives of children under 6 growing up in underprivileged areas. Other organizations included Child and Youth Friendly Ottawa, Dandelion Dance, Roots of Empathy, and Operation Come Home. OrKidstra is a highlight of the programs that that she has been involved in, that are offered to assist children to have an opportunity to succeed in life with their hopes and dreams for the future, on the same level as their peers.

Shirley has received many Awards over the years, including the YWCA Woman of Distinction Award, The Women’s Business Achievement Award, an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Ottawa, an Honorary Degree from Algonquin College, a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Ottawa Board of Trade, and the Order of Canada.

Board MemberAmar Marouf

Born in Ottawa and having grown up in Algeria, France, the UK, and Canada, Amar’s life has been a mosaic of global experiences. Amar became a global citizen from a young age, and honed the linguistic prowess that would lead him to mastering over ten languages.

Amar’s affinity for music emerged early, and his talent in singing and playing the cello was nurtured at OrKidstra. At OrKidstra, he performed at prestigious events including the Juno Awards and the Canada 150 celebrations at Parliament Hill. He has also served as a mentor within the program, guiding the next generation of OrKidstra students in true El Sistema fashion. Amar’s artistic pursuits extend to his active participation in local choirs, including Caelis and the Rideau Chorale, and his volunteer work with organizations like CAMMAC and the Ottawa Arts Association.

By the age of 23, Amar successfully launched and sold two companies. His entrepreneurial spirit took him to the global stage, where he represented Canadian youth in entrepreneurship at international forums such as the G20 Young Entrepreneurs Alliance with Futurpreneur, and the Global Entrepreneurship Congress.

Currently, Amar leads the business development of the US Sales Initiative at Gowling WLG (Canada) LLP. His previous roles include positions in business analysis at Global Affairs and other government agencies. Amar graduated from Carleton University with an Honors degree in Global and International Studies.

A published author, Amar has contributed to the discourse on personal growth, entrepreneurship, and international relations, sharing his insights and experiences through various publications. His tenure as an Honorary Reporter for the Embassy of Korea added a cultural dimension to his experiences. Amar is an active member of the Global Shaper Ottawa Hub by the World Economic Forum.

“Joining the OrKidstra board is not just a role for me; it’s a journey coming full circle. This organization has been a pivotal part of my life, offering transformative experiences that have shaped who I am today. My aspiration is to extend these invaluable opportunities to future generations. I believe that OrKidstra leaves an indelible mark on everyone it touches, a lasting legacy that resonates no matter where life takes us. I am wholeheartedly committed to nurturing the growth and development of these young talents, ensuring that each musical note they play is a step towards their bright future.” – Amar Marouf

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Board MemberAmar Marouf

Born in Ottawa and having grown up in Algeria, France, the UK, and Canada, Amar’s life has been a mosaic of global experiences. Amar became a global citizen from a young age, and honed the linguistic prowess that would lead him to mastering over ten languages.

Amar’s affinity for music emerged early, and his talent in singing and playing the cello was nurtured at OrKidstra. At OrKidstra, he performed at prestigious events including the Juno Awards and the Canada 150 celebrations at Parliament Hill. He has also served as a mentor within the program, guiding the next generation of OrKidstra students in true El Sistema fashion. Amar’s artistic pursuits extend to his active participation in local choirs, including Caelis and the Rideau Chorale, and his volunteer work with organizations like CAMMAC and the Ottawa Arts Association.

By the age of 23, Amar successfully launched and sold two companies. His entrepreneurial spirit took him to the global stage, where he represented Canadian youth in entrepreneurship at international forums such as the G20 Young Entrepreneurs Alliance with Futurpreneur, and the Global Entrepreneurship Congress.

Currently, Amar leads the business development of the US Sales Initiative at Gowling WLG (Canada) LLP. His previous roles include positions in business analysis at Global Affairs and other government agencies. Amar graduated from Carleton University with an Honors degree in Global and International Studies.

A published author, Amar has contributed to the discourse on personal growth, entrepreneurship, and international relations, sharing his insights and experiences through various publications. His tenure as an Honorary Reporter for the Embassy of Korea added a cultural dimension to his experiences. Amar is an active member of the Global Shaper Ottawa Hub by the World Economic Forum.

“Joining the OrKidstra board is not just a role for me; it’s a journey coming full circle. This organization has been a pivotal part of my life, offering transformative experiences that have shaped who I am today. My aspiration is to extend these invaluable opportunities to future generations. I believe that OrKidstra leaves an indelible mark on everyone it touches, a lasting legacy that resonates no matter where life takes us. I am wholeheartedly committed to nurturing the growth and development of these young talents, ensuring that each musical note they play is a step towards their bright future.” – Amar Marouf

Board MemberChristopher Van Barr

Christopher is an Intellectual property lawyer at Gowling WLG. Previously, adjunct professor of patent and trade-secret law, University of Ottawa. Christopher is a Trustee on Board of Trustees at Gowling WLG as well as former board member for a number of charitable organizations. Proud father of, and husband to, skilled musicians and music teachers.

“I am delighted to join the OrKidstra family which, to me, represents everything good about Canada. I have watched how music education can transform lives and I am excited at the opportunity to help OrKidstra reach out and empower young people from under-served communities.” – Chris Van Barr

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Board MemberChristopher Van Barr

Christopher is an Intellectual property lawyer at Gowling WLG. Previously, adjunct professor of patent and trade-secret law, University of Ottawa. Christopher is a Trustee on Board of Trustees at Gowling WLG as well as former board member for a number of charitable organizations. Proud father of, and husband to, skilled musicians and music teachers.

“I am delighted to join the OrKidstra family which, to me, represents everything good about Canada. I have watched how music education can transform lives and I am excited at the opportunity to help OrKidstra reach out and empower young people from under-served communities.” – Chris Van Barr

Staff

Executive & Artistic Director and Co-Founder of OrKidstraTina Fedeski, MSM

After a life-transforming experience in UK’s Bedfordshire Youth Orchestra, Tina went on to study at the world-renowned Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London, England, and then played principal flute in the Tenerife Symphony Orchestra for four seasons. After spending a six-month sabbatical on full scholarship at the Banff Centre for the Arts, she moved to Ottawa, where she played with all the established orchestras and festivals in Ottawa, including the National Arts Centre Orchestra and the Ottawa Chamber Music Festival.

In 1999, in partnership with her husband Gary McMillen, she opened The Leading Note. Until its sale in 2020, it was recognized as one of Canada’s leading print music stores – and a hub of the classical music scene in Ottawa.

In 2007, motivated by her belief in the transformative power of youth music, Tina visited Venezuela to research El Sistema. Soon afterward, she and co-founders Gary McMillen and Margaret Tobolowska founded OrKidstra (previously also known as The Leading Note Foundation.)

As Executive Director, Tina proudly accepted a Peace Award from the Mayor of Ottawa in 2011 in recognition of OrKidstra’s impact on the community of Ottawa. In spring 2012, Yasir Naqvi, MPP Ottawa Centre, presented Tina with the Leading Women/Leading Girls, Building Communities Award. She is also recognized as a Kickass Canadian, and late in 2012, she received, with immense gratitude, the Canadian Institute for Child Health Leadership Award. In 2017, the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, awarded Tina Fedeski the Meritorious Service Medal for creating the OrKidstra program. Tina is a Certified Integral Associate Coach™ with Integral Coaching Canada.

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Executive & Artistic Director and Co-Founder of OrKidstraTina Fedeski, MSM

After a life-transforming experience in UK’s Bedfordshire Youth Orchestra, Tina went on to study at the world-renowned Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London, England, and then played principal flute in the Tenerife Symphony Orchestra for four seasons. After spending a six-month sabbatical on full scholarship at the Banff Centre for the Arts, she moved to Ottawa, where she played with all the established orchestras and festivals in Ottawa, including the National Arts Centre Orchestra and the Ottawa Chamber Music Festival.

In 1999, in partnership with her husband Gary McMillen, she opened The Leading Note. Until its sale in 2020, it was recognized as one of Canada’s leading print music stores – and a hub of the classical music scene in Ottawa.

In 2007, motivated by her belief in the transformative power of youth music, Tina visited Venezuela to research El Sistema. Soon afterward, she and co-founders Gary McMillen and Margaret Tobolowska founded OrKidstra (previously also known as The Leading Note Foundation.)

As Executive Director, Tina proudly accepted a Peace Award from the Mayor of Ottawa in 2011 in recognition of OrKidstra’s impact on the community of Ottawa. In spring 2012, Yasir Naqvi, MPP Ottawa Centre, presented Tina with the Leading Women/Leading Girls, Building Communities Award. She is also recognized as a Kickass Canadian, and late in 2012, she received, with immense gratitude, the Canadian Institute for Child Health Leadership Award. In 2017, the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, awarded Tina Fedeski the Meritorious Service Medal for creating the OrKidstra program. Tina is a Certified Integral Associate Coach™ with Integral Coaching Canada.

Director of Finance & OperationsCarrie (Olivo) Lauzon

Carrie joined the OrKidstra team in the summer of 2014. She has worked in the not-for-profit sector in finance and education for 20+ years, including positions with the YMCA-YWCA and United Way. Carrie is an alumna of the Wexford School for Performing Arts in Toronto, where she performed and recorded with various stage, jazz and concert bands on the alto and baritone saxophones. She holds a Bachelor of Arts, with a specialized Music Degree in Classical Vocal Performance, from York University. When she’s not working “backstage” at OrKidstra, Carrie performers with her bands “Lady Soul” & “Tired But Not Defeated”. She also enjoys the great outdoors with her family and volunteering to support local children’s charities with The League of Super Heroes and the 501st Legion.

“Living in Ottawa, I see firsthand the difference the OrKidstra program makes. It’s amazing what can happen when you give kids the chance to shine, the opportunity to communicate and express themselves in a positive way together. They find their voice, and it is beautiful.” – Carrie Olivo Lauzon

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Director of Finance & OperationsCarrie (Olivo) Lauzon

Carrie joined the OrKidstra team in the summer of 2014. She has worked in the not-for-profit sector in finance and education for 20+ years, including positions with the YMCA-YWCA and United Way. Carrie is an alumna of the Wexford School for Performing Arts in Toronto, where she performed and recorded with various stage, jazz and concert bands on the alto and baritone saxophones. She holds a Bachelor of Arts, with a specialized Music Degree in Classical Vocal Performance, from York University. When she’s not working “backstage” at OrKidstra, Carrie performers with her bands “Lady Soul” & “Tired But Not Defeated”. She also enjoys the great outdoors with her family and volunteering to support local children’s charities with The League of Super Heroes and the 501st Legion.

“Living in Ottawa, I see firsthand the difference the OrKidstra program makes. It’s amazing what can happen when you give kids the chance to shine, the opportunity to communicate and express themselves in a positive way together. They find their voice, and it is beautiful.” – Carrie Olivo Lauzon

Director of Development & CommunicationsRebecca Russell

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Rebecca (she/her) is an experienced communications and development professional and a Dora Award-winning multidisciplinary performing artist. Rebecca holds a BA Combined Honours in Music and Theatre from Dalhousie University, a post-graduate certificate from Centennial College in Corporate Communications and Public Relations (Honours) and the Association of Fundraising Professionals’ Certification in the Fundamentals of Fundraising.

Rebecca has over 10 years of experience working in communications and development with arts organizations such as The AFC, Classical Theatre Project, and Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. During her three years with The AFC – the lifeline for Canada’s entertainment industry, Rebecca managed all aspects of fundraising, event planning, communications, marketing, and development for the national charity.

Rebecca has worked professionally as a singer (mezzo-soprano), actor, dancer, director, and performing artist with companies such as Against the Grain Theatre, Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia, Neptune Theatre, Artistic Fraud of Newfoundland, Timber Lake Camp, Essential Opera, Orpheus Musical Theatre, 9th Hour Theatre Company, and many more.

Rebecca joined the OrKidstra team in August 2016.

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Director of Development & CommunicationsRebecca Russell

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Rebecca (she/her) is an experienced communications and development professional and a Dora Award-winning multidisciplinary performing artist. Rebecca holds a BA Combined Honours in Music and Theatre from Dalhousie University, a post-graduate certificate from Centennial College in Corporate Communications and Public Relations (Honours) and the Association of Fundraising Professionals’ Certification in the Fundamentals of Fundraising.

Rebecca has over 10 years of experience working in communications and development with arts organizations such as The AFC, Classical Theatre Project, and Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS. During her three years with The AFC – the lifeline for Canada’s entertainment industry, Rebecca managed all aspects of fundraising, event planning, communications, marketing, and development for the national charity.

Rebecca has worked professionally as a singer (mezzo-soprano), actor, dancer, director, and performing artist with companies such as Against the Grain Theatre, Mermaid Theatre of Nova Scotia, Neptune Theatre, Artistic Fraud of Newfoundland, Timber Lake Camp, Essential Opera, Orpheus Musical Theatre, 9th Hour Theatre Company, and many more.

Rebecca joined the OrKidstra team in August 2016.

Artistic Operations ManagerMark Constantine

Mark Constantine is an arts administrator, educator, and performer with a variety of musical interests. Originally from Canada’s East Coast, he is a graduate of both the University of Ottawa and Indiana University, where he received Bachelor of Music and Master of Music degrees in Horn performance, respectively. His principal artistic mentors include Dale Clevenger, Lawrence Vine, and Dan Gress, among others.

As a performer, Mark has appeared with the Ottawa Symphony Orchestra, the Owensboro Symphony Orchestra, the Newfoundland Symphony Orchestra, the Opera on the Avalon Festival Orchestra, and a variety of other performing arts organizations across Canada. He was a member of the National Youth Orchestra in 2016 and 2017, the National Academy Orchestra in 2019 and 2020, and has worked with renowned conductors including Alexander Shelley, Thomas Wilkins, and Tania Miller. Mark was a member of The Ottawa Brass Initiative from 2016-2018, has performed in the Ottawa Chamberfest, The Scotia Festival of Music, the Bathurst Chamber Music Festival, and is a founding member of the Monteregian Brass Quintet.

Believing strongly in the power of music to build community, Mark joined OrKidstra’s team as a Teaching Artist in September 2020 and expanded his role as Artistic Administrator later that year. Mark looks forward to his sophomore season with OrKidstra in 2021-2022. In addition to performing and his work with OrKidstra, he maintains a small private studio of horn students in the National Capital Region. In his free time, Mark enjoys exercising outdoors, spending time with loved ones, and the company of his cat, Moe.

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Artistic Operations ManagerMark Constantine

Mark Constantine is an arts administrator, educator, and performer with a variety of musical interests. Originally from Canada’s East Coast, he is a graduate of both the University of Ottawa and Indiana University, where he received Bachelor of Music and Master of Music degrees in Horn performance, respectively. His principal artistic mentors include Dale Clevenger, Lawrence Vine, and Dan Gress, among others.

As a performer, Mark has appeared with the Ottawa Symphony Orchestra, the Owensboro Symphony Orchestra, the Newfoundland Symphony Orchestra, the Opera on the Avalon Festival Orchestra, and a variety of other performing arts organizations across Canada. He was a member of the National Youth Orchestra in 2016 and 2017, the National Academy Orchestra in 2019 and 2020, and has worked with renowned conductors including Alexander Shelley, Thomas Wilkins, and Tania Miller. Mark was a member of The Ottawa Brass Initiative from 2016-2018, has performed in the Ottawa Chamberfest, The Scotia Festival of Music, the Bathurst Chamber Music Festival, and is a founding member of the Monteregian Brass Quintet.

Believing strongly in the power of music to build community, Mark joined OrKidstra’s team as a Teaching Artist in September 2020 and expanded his role as Artistic Administrator later that year. Mark looks forward to his sophomore season with OrKidstra in 2021-2022. In addition to performing and his work with OrKidstra, he maintains a small private studio of horn students in the National Capital Region. In his free time, Mark enjoys exercising outdoors, spending time with loved ones, and the company of his cat, Moe.

Resource & Logistics AdministratorInga Vitols

Inga joined the OrKidstra team in the fall of 2020. She graduated from McGill University with a degree in Anthropology and then moved to Riga, Latvia for several years to explore her cultural heritage. After travelling the world, Inga returned to Canada and earned a graduate certificate from Algonquin College in Event Management. Inga was introduced to the charitable sector when she had the opportunity to intern at Habitat for Humanity and assist with administration and gala fundraising. As part of her education, she also planned and executed her own fundraising event for the benefit of local Ottawa charities. Over the years, she has spent many hours volunteering within the Latvian community in Montreal and Ottawa and planning a summer camp for Latvian children. Inga has a passion for helping others and she is excited to combine that dedication with her love of music, events and organization.

Growing up as a Latvian Canadian, music has always played an important role in Inga’s life. Learning folk songs, singing in a Latvian choir and participating in the Latvian Song and Dance Festival was a way for Inga to connect to her family’s history and cultural roots. She has experienced first-hand the benefits and the feeling of community that music can provide which is why she was immediately drawn to OrKidstra. In her spare time, Inga loves to garden, spend time at the cottage and do anything outdoors, and she is currently learning how to play the ukulele.

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Resource & Logistics AdministratorInga Vitols

Inga joined the OrKidstra team in the fall of 2020. She graduated from McGill University with a degree in Anthropology and then moved to Riga, Latvia for several years to explore her cultural heritage. After travelling the world, Inga returned to Canada and earned a graduate certificate from Algonquin College in Event Management. Inga was introduced to the charitable sector when she had the opportunity to intern at Habitat for Humanity and assist with administration and gala fundraising. As part of her education, she also planned and executed her own fundraising event for the benefit of local Ottawa charities. Over the years, she has spent many hours volunteering within the Latvian community in Montreal and Ottawa and planning a summer camp for Latvian children. Inga has a passion for helping others and she is excited to combine that dedication with her love of music, events and organization.

Growing up as a Latvian Canadian, music has always played an important role in Inga’s life. Learning folk songs, singing in a Latvian choir and participating in the Latvian Song and Dance Festival was a way for Inga to connect to her family’s history and cultural roots. She has experienced first-hand the benefits and the feeling of community that music can provide which is why she was immediately drawn to OrKidstra. In her spare time, Inga loves to garden, spend time at the cottage and do anything outdoors, and she is currently learning how to play the ukulele.

Development & Communications CoordinatorLeslie Noxon

Leslie joined the OrKidstra team in May 2023. Leslie holds a BA Honours in English Literature from Trent University and received a post-graduate certificate from St. Lawrence College (Kingston) in Interactive Marketing Communications. After working for a few years at the Kingston Symphony Association, Leslie pursued further education in arts administration at Queen’s University, where she received her master’s in arts leadership and management. Leslie has spent her career working for various non-profit and arts organizations as well as private sector work and is driven by helping people.
Leslie was involved in many community arts organizations growing up, including her local performing arts theatre and a community choir. She believes participation in these accessible arts programs had a major impact on her development and growth as a child and knows from personal experience how transformative music can be in a child’s life. This is why she is thrilled to be a part of the OrKidstra team and is ready to play her part in supporting the organization’s mission through fundraising and communications efforts.
In her own time, Leslie is an active board member for A Company of Fools Inc. in Ottawa and plays guitar/sings daily. She tries to attend as many local theatre and music productions as time allows and can regularly be found enjoying the outdoors with her two toy poodles.

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Development & Communications CoordinatorLeslie Noxon

Leslie joined the OrKidstra team in May 2023. Leslie holds a BA Honours in English Literature from Trent University and received a post-graduate certificate from St. Lawrence College (Kingston) in Interactive Marketing Communications. After working for a few years at the Kingston Symphony Association, Leslie pursued further education in arts administration at Queen’s University, where she received her master’s in arts leadership and management. Leslie has spent her career working for various non-profit and arts organizations as well as private sector work and is driven by helping people.
Leslie was involved in many community arts organizations growing up, including her local performing arts theatre and a community choir. She believes participation in these accessible arts programs had a major impact on her development and growth as a child and knows from personal experience how transformative music can be in a child’s life. This is why she is thrilled to be a part of the OrKidstra team and is ready to play her part in supporting the organization’s mission through fundraising and communications efforts.
In her own time, Leslie is an active board member for A Company of Fools Inc. in Ottawa and plays guitar/sings daily. She tries to attend as many local theatre and music productions as time allows and can regularly be found enjoying the outdoors with her two toy poodles.

Program Assistant & Teaching ArtistLucas Olsen-Willford

Lucas Olsen-Willford is a violinist born and raised in Kamloops, British Columbia. He began his musical journey at age 7 through an organization similar to OrKidstra. This upbringing ignited a passion for a life of music. Lucas was an Assistant-Faculty member at the Kamloops Interior Summer School of Music (KISSM) and spent many summers teaching all levels of Trombone, Ukulele and World Music to children of all ages. His can-do attitude once led him to become a percussionist for KISSM’s performances of Mama Mia!, one of his favourite musicals. During his time at KISSM, he was also able to work closely with the School District 73 strings program, mentoring youth, changing many broken strings, and leading string instrument workshops. Lucas has served on the Board of Directors for the Kamloops Festival of the Performing Arts and the Thompson Valley Orchestra. He has also been able to work with several orchestras across Canada, including the Kamloops Symphony Orchestra, the Okanagan Symphony Orchestra, and the Orchestre de la Francophonie. Lucas’ love for all genres of music has allowed him to work with people of all backgrounds and ages in various ensembles. He is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Music specializing in performance at the University of Ottawa. Lucas is extremely excited to get to know everyone in the OrKidstra family and help them succeed in every way possible!

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Program Assistant & Teaching ArtistLucas Olsen-Willford

Lucas Olsen-Willford is a violinist born and raised in Kamloops, British Columbia. He began his musical journey at age 7 through an organization similar to OrKidstra. This upbringing ignited a passion for a life of music. Lucas was an Assistant-Faculty member at the Kamloops Interior Summer School of Music (KISSM) and spent many summers teaching all levels of Trombone, Ukulele and World Music to children of all ages. His can-do attitude once led him to become a percussionist for KISSM’s performances of Mama Mia!, one of his favourite musicals. During his time at KISSM, he was also able to work closely with the School District 73 strings program, mentoring youth, changing many broken strings, and leading string instrument workshops. Lucas has served on the Board of Directors for the Kamloops Festival of the Performing Arts and the Thompson Valley Orchestra. He has also been able to work with several orchestras across Canada, including the Kamloops Symphony Orchestra, the Okanagan Symphony Orchestra, and the Orchestre de la Francophonie. Lucas’ love for all genres of music has allowed him to work with people of all backgrounds and ages in various ensembles. He is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Music specializing in performance at the University of Ottawa. Lucas is extremely excited to get to know everyone in the OrKidstra family and help them succeed in every way possible!

Teaching Artist & Program FacilitatorSonia Caceres

Originally from Colombia, Sonia is an Ottawa-based musician and music educator specializing in violin. In 2017, she completed her Bachelor of Music with Honours in Education from the Industrial University of Santander (UIS) in Colombia. Sonia has performed with the Symphonic Orchestra of the Autonomous University of Bucaramanga (UNAB), the Young UNAB Orchestra, and the string quartet Aniri; she currently plays with the Kanata Symphony Orchestra. Thanks to her family, Sonia had the privilege of listening to traditional Colombian Andean music while growing up. From a young age, she was part of the musical ensemble Corazón Santandereano, where she learned to love and cherish Andean music. In 2019, Sonia completed a Graduate Diploma in Violin Performance at the University of Ottawa. Recently, Sonia successfully culminated her Master of Arts in Music and Culture at Carleton University.

Sonia’s passion for teaching has grown since the completion of her bachelor’s in 2017. She strongly believes in the positive impact of music on people and feels honoured to be part of that process. In 2018, Sonia joined the OrKidstra family, first as a violin Teaching Artist Assistant and later as a Violin Teaching Artist. Sonia was thrilled to join the OrKidstra staff team as the Teaching Artist & Program Facilitator in fall 2021.

For Sonia, being part of OrKidstra has been a transformative experience as she has found a place full of wonderful people committed to changing lives through music. Additionally, the passion and commitment of the students have encouraged her to keep loving her profession and believing in the power that music holds to transform society. In spring 2022, Sonia was accepted into the AIM Firebird Fellowship. The Firebird Fellowship is AIM (Academy for Impact through Music)’s investment in teachers as the vital change agents for tackling inequality through music education.

In addition to her work with OrKidstra, Sonia has a private violin studio and works for a private music school. Sonia enjoys outdoor spaces, spending time with her loved ones, and dancing. Sonia speaks English, Spanish, and she is currently learning French.

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Teaching Artist & Program FacilitatorSonia Caceres

Originally from Colombia, Sonia is an Ottawa-based musician and music educator specializing in violin. In 2017, she completed her Bachelor of Music with Honours in Education from the Industrial University of Santander (UIS) in Colombia. Sonia has performed with the Symphonic Orchestra of the Autonomous University of Bucaramanga (UNAB), the Young UNAB Orchestra, and the string quartet Aniri; she currently plays with the Kanata Symphony Orchestra. Thanks to her family, Sonia had the privilege of listening to traditional Colombian Andean music while growing up. From a young age, she was part of the musical ensemble Corazón Santandereano, where she learned to love and cherish Andean music. In 2019, Sonia completed a Graduate Diploma in Violin Performance at the University of Ottawa. Recently, Sonia successfully culminated her Master of Arts in Music and Culture at Carleton University.

Sonia’s passion for teaching has grown since the completion of her bachelor’s in 2017. She strongly believes in the positive impact of music on people and feels honoured to be part of that process. In 2018, Sonia joined the OrKidstra family, first as a violin Teaching Artist Assistant and later as a Violin Teaching Artist. Sonia was thrilled to join the OrKidstra staff team as the Teaching Artist & Program Facilitator in fall 2021.

For Sonia, being part of OrKidstra has been a transformative experience as she has found a place full of wonderful people committed to changing lives through music. Additionally, the passion and commitment of the students have encouraged her to keep loving her profession and believing in the power that music holds to transform society. In spring 2022, Sonia was accepted into the AIM Firebird Fellowship. The Firebird Fellowship is AIM (Academy for Impact through Music)’s investment in teachers as the vital change agents for tackling inequality through music education.

In addition to her work with OrKidstra, Sonia has a private violin studio and works for a private music school. Sonia enjoys outdoor spaces, spending time with her loved ones, and dancing. Sonia speaks English, Spanish, and she is currently learning French.

Program AdministratorAstrid Camarena Correa

Astrid Camarena Correa is an active musician, devoting her time to performance, teaching and more recently working for OrKidstra. Born and raised in Mexico, she graduated from Autonomous University of Aguascalientes, where she did her Bachelor of Music and later came to Canada to study her masters in music performance/pedagogy in piano at Memorial University in St John’s, NL.
She studied with several pianists like Claudia Cordova, Londa Mashkarashvili, Nika Jonicenoka, Kristina Szutor, and Silvia Navarrete.
Astrid has explored many aspects in her career as a pianist. She has played with orchestras like Orquesta Sinfónica Juvenil de Puebla, Orquesta Filarmonica de la Universidad Autonoma de Aguascalientes and the Orquesta Filarmonica de Aguascalientes. She has collaborated with several instrumentalists, singers and choirs, as well as ballet studios. Astrid has had the opportunity to teach piano and music theory both in community projects and in different music schools. These experiences made her realize how big of an impact can be made for people when they get the opportunity to learn and play music. Her desire to contribute to her community is always present and, after recently moving back to Canada, she is ready to learn from and contribute to OrKidstra while continuing to teach and perform.
Astrid speaks Spanish, English, and a little bit of French and she joined the OrKidstra team in January 2023.

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Program AdministratorAstrid Camarena Correa

Astrid Camarena Correa is an active musician, devoting her time to performance, teaching and more recently working for OrKidstra. Born and raised in Mexico, she graduated from Autonomous University of Aguascalientes, where she did her Bachelor of Music and later came to Canada to study her masters in music performance/pedagogy in piano at Memorial University in St John’s, NL.
She studied with several pianists like Claudia Cordova, Londa Mashkarashvili, Nika Jonicenoka, Kristina Szutor, and Silvia Navarrete.
Astrid has explored many aspects in her career as a pianist. She has played with orchestras like Orquesta Sinfónica Juvenil de Puebla, Orquesta Filarmonica de la Universidad Autonoma de Aguascalientes and the Orquesta Filarmonica de Aguascalientes. She has collaborated with several instrumentalists, singers and choirs, as well as ballet studios. Astrid has had the opportunity to teach piano and music theory both in community projects and in different music schools. These experiences made her realize how big of an impact can be made for people when they get the opportunity to learn and play music. Her desire to contribute to her community is always present and, after recently moving back to Canada, she is ready to learn from and contribute to OrKidstra while continuing to teach and perform.
Astrid speaks Spanish, English, and a little bit of French and she joined the OrKidstra team in January 2023.

Program AssistantElhaam Namet-Allah

Born and raised in Kingston, Ontario, Elhaam Namet-Allah is a first generation Canadian-Egyptian university student with a passion for music. Falling in love with the flute, Elhaam spent eight years playing in concert bands, improvising solos for her high school jazz band, and was able to complete her level 6 RCM exam within a year of taking private lessons. In late 2019, Elhaam began taking voice and piano lessons at “Molly Luhta’s Private Studio”. Once Elhaam found her passion for singing, she quickly performed in several musical festivals, including the Canada Music Week Festival, the Kiwanis Music Festival, and the Stirling Music Festival. In 2021, less than 2 years after Elhaam began training vocally, Elhaam placed second in her “Vocal Solo Class” at Stirling Music Festival; where she was competing against participants all across Ontario. Shortly after, Elhaam won the “ORMTA” scholarship for her dedication to music in Kingston.
Elhaam continues to pursue her passion of music while also pursuing her passion for human rights, global affairs, and politics in Ottawa. At the University of Ottawa, Elhaam is currently enrolled in the Honours Program of Political Science with a minor in Music, and is training as a soprano at the University. In 2022, Elhaam was able to display her love of musical theatre by being featured as an Off-Stage Singer in the Orpheus Musical Theatre Production of “Newsies” while also understudying the lead role of “Medda Larkin”.
With first hand experience, Elhaam believes that music has the power to change lives no matter what academic path someone chooses to go on. While Elhaam is able to speak English, Arabic, and French, Elhaam believes that learning the universal language of music is just as important as learning any other language. Elhaam was honoured to join the OrKidstra Team in December 2022 as she wishes to help people find themselves and reach their greatest potential.

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Program AssistantElhaam Namet-Allah

Born and raised in Kingston, Ontario, Elhaam Namet-Allah is a first generation Canadian-Egyptian university student with a passion for music. Falling in love with the flute, Elhaam spent eight years playing in concert bands, improvising solos for her high school jazz band, and was able to complete her level 6 RCM exam within a year of taking private lessons. In late 2019, Elhaam began taking voice and piano lessons at “Molly Luhta’s Private Studio”. Once Elhaam found her passion for singing, she quickly performed in several musical festivals, including the Canada Music Week Festival, the Kiwanis Music Festival, and the Stirling Music Festival. In 2021, less than 2 years after Elhaam began training vocally, Elhaam placed second in her “Vocal Solo Class” at Stirling Music Festival; where she was competing against participants all across Ontario. Shortly after, Elhaam won the “ORMTA” scholarship for her dedication to music in Kingston.
Elhaam continues to pursue her passion of music while also pursuing her passion for human rights, global affairs, and politics in Ottawa. At the University of Ottawa, Elhaam is currently enrolled in the Honours Program of Political Science with a minor in Music, and is training as a soprano at the University. In 2022, Elhaam was able to display her love of musical theatre by being featured as an Off-Stage Singer in the Orpheus Musical Theatre Production of “Newsies” while also understudying the lead role of “Medda Larkin”.
With first hand experience, Elhaam believes that music has the power to change lives no matter what academic path someone chooses to go on. While Elhaam is able to speak English, Arabic, and French, Elhaam believes that learning the universal language of music is just as important as learning any other language. Elhaam was honoured to join the OrKidstra Team in December 2022 as she wishes to help people find themselves and reach their greatest potential.

Program Facilitator & Teaching ArtistVenessa Lachance

Venessa Lachance hails from a small French community in Northern Ontario and launched her musical career in Ottawa. Since her arrival in the capital, the young composer has worked as the music director for several theatre productions. Among these are Lo (Or Dear Mr Wells) and Daisy (GCTC, 2019 & 2021), Turcaret, or The Financier and The Bonds of Interest (Odyssey Theatre, 2014 & 2020), Prosodie in Le promenoir (NAC’s Théâtre français, 2014), La fille d’argile and Le long de la principale (Théâtre la Catapulte, 2014 & 2016), and On verra (Théâtre du Trillium, 2016). Venessa composed for Théâtre Tremplin for 6 years. She was nominated for a Rideau Award in 2015 in the Emerging Artist of the Year category. In 2014, she released her first album consisting of solo piano compositions. Venessa’s classical background and her interest in using music as a story-telling device can be heard throughout the narrative-like short pieces on the album. It’s to this recording that Venessa owes her Trille Or Award nomination in the Discovery of the Year category (2015). Venessa began teaching with OrKidstra in 2014.

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Program Facilitator & Teaching ArtistVenessa Lachance

Venessa Lachance hails from a small French community in Northern Ontario and launched her musical career in Ottawa. Since her arrival in the capital, the young composer has worked as the music director for several theatre productions. Among these are Lo (Or Dear Mr Wells) and Daisy (GCTC, 2019 & 2021), Turcaret, or The Financier and The Bonds of Interest (Odyssey Theatre, 2014 & 2020), Prosodie in Le promenoir (NAC’s Théâtre français, 2014), La fille d’argile and Le long de la principale (Théâtre la Catapulte, 2014 & 2016), and On verra (Théâtre du Trillium, 2016). Venessa composed for Théâtre Tremplin for 6 years. She was nominated for a Rideau Award in 2015 in the Emerging Artist of the Year category. In 2014, she released her first album consisting of solo piano compositions. Venessa’s classical background and her interest in using music as a story-telling device can be heard throughout the narrative-like short pieces on the album. It’s to this recording that Venessa owes her Trille Or Award nomination in the Discovery of the Year category (2015). Venessa began teaching with OrKidstra in 2014.

Celebrating OrKidstra’s AmbassadorsLeading by example

OrKidstra’s Ambassadors, Angela Hewitt, CC, OBE, Alexander Shelley, and Kellylee Evans, are inspiring leaders both in the community and the world of music. They perform in the greatest concert halls internationally and command critical acclaim. Their finely tuned talent and passion for their craft stand as a shining example to all musicians, but their commitment to OrKidstra is truly a gift.

Through master classes, special rehearsals and performances, OrKidstra’s students have the opportunity to play with and learn from, the very best. For OrKidstra’s young musicians, this is the benefit and joy of following the steps of OrKidstra’s exceptional Ambassadors.

Angela Hewitt, C.C., O.B.E.

Internationally acclaimed pianist Angela Hewitt became OrKidstra’s first Ambassador in 2014. In accepting this position, Ms. Hewitt said, “OrKidstra has shown how music can change the prospects of children who would not otherwise have the opportunity to learn an instrument. I am delighted to lend my name to their efforts.”

Ms. Hewitt plays to audiences all over the world and yet holds deep affection for her hometown Ottawa. In the fall of 2017, Ms. Hewitt generously performed at a hugely successful fundraising concert in celebration of OrKidstra’s 10th Anniversary.

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Alexander Shelley

In 2015, Alexander Shelley became the celebrated Music Director of Canada’s National Arts Centre Orchestra. He is also Principal Associate Conductor of the Royal Philharmonic Symphony Orchestra. In 2016, Maestro Shelley joined Angela Hewitt in becoming an OrKidstra Ambassador.

He says “It’s an absolute badge of honour for me to be involved in this remarkable organization. I’ve only known OrKidstra for a few years, but even in that short time I have seen and heard tremendous growth. These children from Ottawa’s under-served areas are a shining example of how music can uplift the mind and spirit.”

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Kellylee Evans

Kellylee Evans is a JUNO award-winning Canadian jazz and soul singer and songwriter based in Ottawa. Over the past 15 years, Ms. Evans has been winning over audiences with forays into jazz, R&B, hip-hop, and pop, including her new, five-song EP, GREENLIGHT.

Ms. Evans became an OrKidstra Ambassador in 2019. She commented, “I have been an ardent admirer of the OrKidstra program for a number of years, watching children grow and flourish under the loving care of its teachers and volunteers. What this organization gives to our community cannot be quantified. Being asked to be an Ambassador for the program brings me immense joy, as does the honour of joining the ranks of my fellow Ambassadors. It is my hope that I can be of service to OrKidstra and its talented students.”

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ReportingA well-governed, well-managed and responsible organization

A message from the Chair and the Artistic & Executive Director from the 2022-23 OrKidstra Annual Report 

As we reflect on our 2022-23 season, we are filled with a profound sense of gratitude for our OrKidstra family. Our collective efforts to rebuild and revitalize after the challenges of the last few years have created an even stronger and reconnected community. Guided by our shared values of Love, Courage, Excellence, and Belonging, our full return to in-person programming in 2022-23 brought significant growth for both our students and OrKidstra.

As the opportunity returned to make music together, we were delighted to welcome almost 100 beginner students to our after-school programming at our Centre and Vanier Hubs. For the first time since 2019, we watched our Beginner Instrumental students fall in love with their instruments and learn side-by-side with their peers, building relationships that we know will develop into beautiful life-long friendships. In December, we celebrated our first in-person Holiday Concerts since before the pandemic. It was a meaningful experience for everyone involved, especially for students who had to muster up the Courage
to perform live for the first time. It’s been truly inspiring to witness our older students stepping into mentorship roles, guiding younger and newer members through challenges, fostering their musical growth, and showing them that a sense of Belonging can be found at OrKidstra.

Strengthened by your support, OrKidstra was able to provide awe-inspiring opportunities and life-changing experiences for our students by reconnecting with the Ottawa community in 2022-23. Our students showcased their Excellence and dedication to community building at many high-profile events, including having the honour of gracing the stage at the Governor General’s Performing Arts Awards. In the spring, 25 of our senior students also took part in a transformative experience collaborating and performing with musicians from the world-renowned Chineke! Orchestra, deepening their awareness of musicality, teamwork, passion, and possibility.

The success of our 2022-23 season is a testament to the resilience and commitment of our OrKidstra family. Our dedicated students, volunteers, Board, Teaching Artists, staff, Ambassadors, donors, sponsors, and partners are the true conductors behind OrKidstra’s magic. By championing our efforts with steadfast support and unwavering Love, you are playing a key part in empowering children and youth to reach their full potential through the joys and challenges of music-making.

With boundless thanks and appreciation,

Paul Wells, Chair, 2022-23
Tina Fedeski, MSM, Co-Founder and Executive & Artistic Director

View the OrKidstra Annual Report 2022-23

 

Special thanks to Aerographics Creative Services for their support in the design and production of the Annual Report.

Annual Reports

Audited Financial Statements

Please note that OrKidstra’s fiscal year runs from July 1 to June 30.

More info about OrKidstra can be found on OrKidstra’s Charity Directorate site (CRA) and on Blumberg’s Charity Data site. 

ImpactMaking A Difference

OrKidstra’s 2022-23 Impact Report

Your support is changing kids’ lives through the power of music! 

Despite the recognized value of music to the growing mind, almost 55,000 children attending elementary school in Ottawa have no specialist music teacher (Ottawa Insights), and private music lessons are largely out of reach due to financial constraints, cultural differences, settlement difficulties, and language barriers. Youth in high-risk areas are also more likely to drop out of school, which continues the cycle of poverty. 

In the hands of a child, a clarinet or violin becomes a remarkable instrument of change, growth, and empowerment. OrKidstra gives kids from under-served Ottawa communities a sense of belonging and achievement while fostering important life skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, responsibility, creativity, dedication and communication. 

OrKidstra helps kids become virtuoso adults. 

 

*In-school (funded by the school boards) and after-school.
**2022-23 OrKidstra Student, Parent and Teacher Survey. Participants indicated their perception of growth from September 2022 to June 2023.
***Centretown, Vanier, Overbrook, Heron Gate, and Lowertown (Ottawa, ON, Canada)

%

of OrKidstra graduates have completed high school and gone on to post-secondary education

%

of students participate for free

students and counting*

different cultural & linguistic backgrounds

%

of OrKidstra parents say their child is more aware of how important it is to be kind to others**

%

of OrKidstra parents say their child is doing better in school**

%

of OrKidstra parents say their child has improved their musical ability**

%

of students say they are better at accomplishing challenging tasks**

%

of students say they appreciate the opportunities and mentorship they have received at OrKidstra**

under-served Ottawa neighbourhoods***

Stories

Meet our 2023 OrKidstra Grads!

This amazing group of graduates are truly BECOMING the leaders of tomorrow. In this video, they share why OrKidstra has been and continues to be so important to them.

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Hadi & Mariam’s Story

Hear from siblings Hadi and Mariam about how being part of OrKidstra helped them feel more connected to music and their community as new Canadians.

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Less Lonely. More Joy!

Less Lonely. More Joy! In this new video, hear directly from students about how OrKidstra brings them music, joy and community.

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“You Are Your Own Best Teacher: OrKidstra’s Masterclass Story”

“You Are Your Own Best Teacher: OrKidstra’s Masterclass Story” is an original OrKidstra short documentary that vividly and authentically captures the joy, struggles, growth, and musical achievements of OrKidstra’s kid-powered…

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Meet Amy

Meet 2021 OrKidstra Graduate Amy! Amy is 17-years-old and plays the violin. “OrKidstra is very much like a big family who support, inspire, and help one another grow as people…

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Now More Than Ever, Music Connects Us!

In this video, hear directly from OrKidstra students Dorcas, Julien, Ayaan, Ezekiel, Abimifoluwa, and Anna Paula, about how OrKidstra has helped change their lives!

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The essence of gratitude is found within the choices we make every day…

OrKidstra student Rinila shares why she feels grateful for the opportunities in her life. Video credit: Kanata Productions/Vectors Group

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I hope to pursue medicine in the future and OrKidstra has definitely helped me reach the potential needed for my goal…

In the fall of 2015, my family moved from Colombia to Ottawa. Our life in Canada faced difficulties in the immigration process as refugee claimants, the process of integration into…

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I hope to pursue medicine in the future and OrKidstra has definitely helped me reach the potential needed for my goal…

In the fall of 2015, my family moved from Colombia to Ottawa. Our life in Canada faced difficulties in the immigration process as refugee claimants, the process of integration into Canadian culture, and the linguistic barriers of immigrants. OrKidstra welcomed my brother Mateo and I with open doors and caring feeling as it does for every single person that seeks the love for music.

The OrKidstra program is based on the building of community and that is one of the most important facets of the program for me. We live in a world where we face globalization and rapid urbanization, these sometimes lead to the sympathetic division of people within. Whenever we are faced with overwhelming different kinds of people whether personally or through the media, our empathy becomes selective and we stray from the definition of humanity. OrKidstra helps enforce the multiculturalism and proficiency of an unified world by giving the gift of music free of charge. OrKidstra serves as the social basis for children to learn not only music but to realize that they belong to a community and to a program that is bigger than themselves and extends to impact more children to come. This sense of community is rare and that is what makes me a proud member of this organization.

OrKidstra has impacted and shaped the character I possess today. Learning a new instrument, the double bass, as a teenager is an unorthodox decision, but it has shaped how I see learning and has made me mature as it takes patience and discipline. Being one of the few bass players at OrKidstra has also pressured me to develop and attempt to play at the highest level of music. Music is a part of who I am and allows me to appreciate more genres of music as OrKidstra, and my teachers, introduce me to new possibilities. Appreciation, gratefulness, and humility are probably the things that I can confidently say that OrKidstra installs in its graduates. What I love about playing music is the human connection, being able to make something sound beautiful with another is a gift and allows not only for the amusement but for the enrichment of the soul as it takes a lot of feeling to play music and do it justice. As well, the never-ending aspect of learning an instrument is something that allows for the thrill of learning to motivate a learning brain.

Both my brother Mateo and I are excelling as students and aim to be useful to society both inside and outside of school by doing volunteering and working. We speak Spanish as our first language, however we have worked hard to become fluent in both English and French in Canada. For the integration into Canadian culture my brother and I are prime examples of excelling citizens and dedicated people in the things we do. OrKidstra has been a pillar of support for our family, the OrKidstra family and has taken care of us during our hardships with language, culture, and health. Thanks to the support of community organizations like OrKidstra, we are in the process of waiting for our citizenship oath celebration. The result of the OrKidstra program is not hard to see, it is a radical change in the community and builds amazing citizens for new generations of Canadians.

Being able to learn a new instrument has been amazing and I am so grateful for this opportunity. OrKidstra has also been a place where I have made important friendships and I could not imagine my life without all of it, all of OrKidstra. I hope to pursue medicine in the future and OrKidstra has definitely helped me reach the potential needed for my goal. The discipline, motivation, and patience OrKidstra has taught me are the values that I hold dearest and the stress-reliever that is music will accompany me for the rest of my life. OrKidstra will always live in my memories as a place of growth and hope.

OrKidstra has been a pillar of support for our family. OrKidstra has taken care of us during our hardships with language, culture, and health and I also hope to contribute and help to the growth of the organization in years to come. – Javier, OrKidstra graduate and Honours Bachelor of Science in Human Kinetics at the University of Ottawa

We love our music, we love our instruments and we love each other…

OrKidstra student Mateo shares why he feels so much love for the program: “Now that I’ve joined OrKidstra, my life is full of harmony and joy!” Video credit: Kanata Productions/Vectors Group

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OrKidstra is the best part of my day and the place that I can really be myself…

When Shan was two, she escaped on foot from Eritrea to Sudan with her mom. It was a big transition coming to Ottawa, but now OrKidstra is the best part of her day!

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OrKidstra is the best part of my day and the place that I can really be myself…

“I was born in Eritrea [a country on the horn of Africa]. When I was two, we escaped to Sudan on foot because there was a lot of violence and fighting in Eritrea and it wasn’t safe anymore. My mom wanted a better future for me. My Dad’s Uncle (I call him Grandpa) helped my mom, my dad, my little brother and me come to Canada in October 2011 when I was six. We speak the language Bilen at home and before I came to Canada, I didn’t speak any English except for knowing a few words like ‘crayon’ or ‘paper.’ It was a big transition coming here, but I really like being in Ottawa now.”

Shan’s father Melake says “I didn’t really know what OrKidstra was at first, but when I came to the Bronson Centre [Centretown Hub] I saw the kids performing music and I was very inspired by that. Shan really likes it at OrKidstra. She doesn’t want to spend any time away from the program! She’s a little bit shy sometimes, but she loves the music and that helps her make friends here. OrKidstra is really good for my family and for the community.”

Shan feels very at home at OrKidstra. She says “I can really be myself at OrKidstra. Here, I can have fun and be with my friends, but at the same time, I am learning. OrKidstra makes learning music fun! I learn many life skills at OrKidstra: I’ve learned to be enthusiastic, to be caring and to work well as part of a team. I learn both music and life lessons from my teachers like Mr. Gareth. I love playing the cello and music really helps me express my feelings. Whenever I get angry or frustrated I pull out my cello and I play all my emotions! OrKidstra is my home away from home.”

Shan and her family are very grateful for the opportunity to be a part of OrKidstra… “I want to say thank you everyone who helps support OrKidstra,” says Shan. “You have really made a difference in my life. By supporting OrKidstra, you are helping me. When I grow up, I would like to be a biochemist; I also want to continue being a musician for the rest of my life. OrKidstra is the best part of my day and the place that I can really be myself. Thank you!” Shan’s father Melake says, “The program will help my children go further in their lives. Thank you very much for this opportunity.” – Shan, OrKidstra student, age 12 – KidStringers (cello) and KidSingers

OrKidstra made me the person I am today…

OrKidstra graduate Gareth was born in a Karen refugee camp on the border of Burma and Thailand. “A few months after arriving in Canada, I joined OrKidstra: it turned out to be the utmost life changing experience for me,” says Gareth.

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OrKidstra made me the person I am today…

Gareth was born in a Karen refugee camp on the border of Burma and Thailand. “A few months after arriving in Canada, I joined OrKidstra: it turned out to be the utmost life changing experience for me,” says Gareth.

Gareth was born in a Karen refugee camp on the border of Burma and Thailand. In his own words…

“I was fortunate enough to be born in a refugee camp (on the border of Burma and Thailand) where my family had relocated because our village was always under attack. My family lived in the refugee camp for about 10-14 years before we moved to Ottawa. A couple months after arriving in Canada, when I was still just learning English, I joined the OrKidstra program: it turned out to be the utmost life changing experience for me.

I love everything about the OrKidstra program: it’s a loving place to be and a place you want to call home. Being a part of OrKidstra has taught me numerous meaningful things about both music and life. OrKidstra has taught me to be a better person, to accomplish what I set out to do, to practice with care, and lastly, to do what I do with love. Every time I pick up the cello, it seems like I can accomplish anything. OrKidstra made me the person I am today.

Today, I am a proud OrKidstra graduate and pursuing my passion for travel by taking Travel Management and Tourism in college. My time at OrKidstra has made this little boy, born in a refugee camp, feel nothing in life is impossible. Thank you so much to the donors and sponsors for making a difference in my life, for giving me this opportunity to fly.”

– Gareth, OrKidstra Graduate (2007 – 2016)

OrKidstra is a very beneficial place for my kids to be after school…

“I think OrKidstra is helping my kids to be better at school – to concentrate more and to understand that when you have goals, you have to work hard to achieve them,” says Vanier Hub parent Marie.

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OrKidstra is a very beneficial place for my kids to be after school…

Marie and her three kids joined the OrKidstra family in the fall of 2016 and attend the Vanier Hub. Marie is originally from Haiti and the family of four speak French, English and Creole together at home – now they also share the joy of the universal language of music!

“I registered my daughter Micheala [8] and my son Jaden [9] – I thought OrKidstra would only work for them – but when I came to OrKidstra’s Vanier Hub, I talked to Madame Tina and she invited my son Alexandre-Medgi [13] to join the singing group! Alex has cerebral palsy so his physicality is very difficult for him, but he has a very bright mind. Alex was enjoying the singing and was very happy so he said yes! I also sing with KidSingers now to help support Alex and so OrKidstra is now a wonderful activity for the whole family.”

“I really like that all my kids can be involved in music – to play and to sing – and to have instruction from teachers who are at a high level,” says Marie. “Micheala, Jaden and Alex are all in KidSingers and Micheala and Jaden are both learning trumpet in the band. My goal as a mom is to give them a chance – to play, to learn, to understand and to create something beautiful. Alex is a really good singer – he loves to sing! He always told me he wanted to sing, to be maybe a recording artist someday; KidSingers with Ms. Roxanne is a wonderful opportunity for him to learn how to sing properly – who knows where it will take him in the future! I know that he won’t let his physical challenges stop him.”

Marie says “OrKidstra is a very beneficial place for my kids to be after school – otherwise they just might be watching TV or something, you know? I think OrKidstra is helping my kids to be better at school – to concentrate more and to understand that when you have goals, you have to work hard to achieve them. When you have something that you really enjoy – like music – it helps you to focus and to work hard.”

The thing that Micheala (8) and Alex (13) like best about OrKidstra is the music and Jaden (9) likes making friends. Siblings don’t always agree on everything, but Jaden and Micheala both agree that they like playing their trumpets because they get to have fun working as group (playing with KidPlayers in the Vanier Hub Junior Band) and that playing an instrument is helping them focus. Eight-year-old Micheala says, “I want to be lots of stuff when I grow up – a doctor, a role model, a musician… I think OrKidstra helps me learn to study better.”

Marie is grateful that the OrKidstra Vanier Hub exists. “If OrKidstra didn’t exist, it would affect my family a lot,” she says. “For now, I can’t really afford music classes for all three of my children. It would be really sad and difficult if OrKidstra closed: it’s something they enjoy, but they are also learning music and important life skills here.”

“We’re looking forward to being a part of OrKidstra next year and each year after! I really want my kids to do the whole OrKidstra program and stay with it until they are 18 so they have the opportunity to learn more. I’d like to say thank you to Madame Tina, the teachers and all the donors for giving all my kids a chance – especially Alex. We always feel welcome at OrKidstra – no judgement – just the opportunity for the kids to participate and to learn, to feel great about themselves and to build self-esteem.”

Jaden, Michaela and Alex say “Merci pour le support!” to everyone who helps to support OrKidstra.

Marie, Vanier Hub parent (2016 – 2018)

OrKidstra has created endless possibilities for me…

OrKidstra student Peter shares how learning the clarinet is helping him understand the value of hard work in all aspects of his life. Video credit: Kanata Productions/Vectors Group

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Playing music at OrKidstra really brings us together…

Twelve-year-old OrKidstra student Ariana talks about why she feels OrKidstra is her second family! Video credit: Kanata Productions/Vectors Group

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OrKidstra has taught me to make the most of my opportunities…

OrKidstra student Randina talks about why he feels OrKidstra is helping him grow as a musician and as a person. Video credit: Kanata Productions/Vectors Group

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Anyone can learn how to sing if they try…

Watch the trailer for the CBC documentary “OrKidstra: The Power of Music.” This 45-minute documentary captures OrKidstra’s story – how the power of music truly empowers kids and builds community! Video credit: CBC Ottawa

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OrKidstra builds important life skills like teamwork and leadership…

OrKidstra graduate and Teaching Artist Declan shares how OrKidstra as given his life meaning.

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OrKidstra builds important life skills like teamwork and leadership…

OrKidstra graduate Declan joined the OrKidstra family at age 11 in 2008. Ten years later, he is in his 3rd year of University and is an OrKidstra Teaching Artist.

“What I like most about OrKidstra is that kids in our community have something really constructive to do after school. Playing and singing with OrKidstra builds important life skills like teamwork and leadership, skills that are applicable to all areas of life. And the kids have a really fun time which a bonus.

I find teaching at OrKidstra really rewarding because I love seeing the kids accomplish their goals. I’m really invested myself and reaching my goals with them. I would totally teach for free if I didn’t have to eat!

I don’t even think I would be playing music if it wasn’t for OrKidstra and definitely not studying it! OrKidstra has really given my life meaning: I feel like I’m really giving back in a positive way.

Your donation goes directly to helping the kids and providing them with necessary equipment like instruments, strings, music and music stands. “When you donate to OrKidstra, you are helping to improve the quality of life for kids from under-served areas of our community AND you are sharing the precious gift of music with them. That’s an amazing gift.”

– Declan, OrKidstra graduate (2008 – 2015) & Teaching Artist

Strategic PlanCrescendo 2026: OrKidstra's 3-Year Strategic Plan

View Crescendo 2026: OrKidstra's 3-Year Strategic Plan

The rising demand for OrKidstra’s programs has led us toward thoughtful plans for strategic growth. In 2020, the pandemic altered many things, including timelines, community needs, and priorities. Thankfully, OrKidstra emerged from the challenges of the last few years with a deeper appreciation for flexibility and an understanding that the needs of the communities we serve have expanded.

With the benefit of 16 years of experience creatively adapting to meet the needs of our community, we have worked together to re-modulate our path forward and are pleased to present Crescendo 2026: OrKidstra’s 3-Year Strategic Plan.

We will share our progress with our active and committed OrKidstra family and remain committed to our vision of a future where all children and youth have the opportunity to find their voice and build their potential through music.