Can you believe it has been 10 years?

If we have been quiet lately, it is because we are gearing up to celebrate this special milestone with an amazing gala concert on May 6th, 2024 at the Richmond Hill Centre for Performing Arts.

To commemorate this, we have written a beautiful mental health anthem together with the super-talented composer Alan Shiner. Writing the song has been one of the most rewarding experiences in our first decade. We hope to share it with you soon.

Of course, the most rewarding part of the past 10 years has been hearing from you. By giving us positive feedback after attending our events and telling us we have helped you find hope and feel less alone, you have inspired us to keep working.

Other amazing milestones and experiences include the return phone call from Lloyd Robertson, with a “yes”, he would speak at the gala. Having opera stars Richard and Lauren Margison sing together at our first few galas… Receiving a video message of support from Rick Mercer… Becoming friends with Luba Goy and eating her homemade arctic char… (never heard about this species of fish until then, btw) Corresponding with Dan Hill about his triumphs and challenges…  Interviewing Jean Stilwell, Ron Korb and so many other amazing artists, both established and on their way up. Living composer Frank Horvat dedicating a piece of music to us. Author David W Barber, creating a special edition of his amazing books for us…Working with David Hetherington of the Amici Chamber Ensemble… the list goes on!

Music is so powerful.

Without it life would have no soundtrack. It allow us to express how we feel and to focus on something different from the ugliness in the world around us. We truly believe that music can change the world because it does change people.

This is why we are now striving to grow our free music program. Since it started last fall, we have had almost 100 applicants and a constant 30 participants. Funding is always a challenge but we will find a way to grow. Many various sources contribute including volunteering sessions at Bingo World Richmond Hill, sponsorship, the odd grant and donations. All help is most appreciated!

Most recently, HNA launched our very first online GROUP MUSIC WELLNESS CLASS. Anyone from across Canada can participate! The group meets on Saturdays from 1:30-2:30 pm.

Our relaunched IN PERSON CHOIR gets together on Fridays from 10:30-11:30 am at the Plaza Suite at the Richmond Hill Centre for Performing Arts.

Ticket sales to our May 6th, 2024 10-year anniversary celebration will be announced very soon. We have already confirmed Grammy awarded singer/songwriter Dan Hill, choreographer/dancer Sebastian Hirtenstein and opera singer Ernesto Ramirez. Remenyi is sponsoring a special performance for two pianos by Milhaud and comedian Evan Carter will host this anniversary special. La Rocca cakes are sponsoring the meet & greet dessert reception after the show.
Thanks for reading this.