David’s Story: Finding Harmony Through Community
When David first joined the High Notes Avante Ensemble, he wasn’t just looking to play music, he was searching for connection. After spending years practicing independently following university, he began to feel isolated and disconnected from a musical community. Everything changed when his mother discovered the program through a local library in Richmond Hill.
David, in the middle, with a couple of his fellow High Notes Ensemble musicians.
By Marilyn Borges
Getting Back Together With Others
David shares, “The interesting thing is High Notes Avante actually inspired me to start joining other groups as well. I started participating with the music at church that I go to on Sundays. I just wanted to get more involved with other people in making music. After university, I was still independently studying music on my own, but I wasn’t part of any community. So what inspired me was getting back together with others to make music.”
A Low-Pressure and Welcoming Environment
Today, David is an active member of the ensemble, where he plays saxophone, along with the flute and harmonica. What makes High Notes Avante different, he says, is its low-pressure and welcoming environment. “It’s more about community and just getting together to make music,” he explains, highlighting how the group focuses on collaboration rather than competition.
The ensemble currently plays a variety of existing songs across genres, adapting to each member’s mood and style. At the same time, there is a shared interest in creativity and growth. David mentions that while they haven’t yet performed original compositions as a group, many members enjoy writing their own music and hope to explore that direction in the future.
A Turning Point in David’s Journey
For David, joining the High Notes Ensemble has been a turning point in both his personal and musical journey. Living with anxiety and having navigated past challenges, he found that being part of a consistent, supportive community made a meaningful difference in his day-to-day life. The ensemble not only provides a creative outlet but also reinforces a positive sense of direction.
As David shares, “Being part of something like this gives me a sense of purpose and reminds me that there are better things you can be doing with your time and energy.”
SEE OUR PROGRAMMING AND APPLY HERE
A Weekly Space for Musical Growth
The ensemble meets weekly, creating not only a space for musical growth but also a sense of accountability and belonging. “If someone can’t make it, the whole group dynamic shifts,” David notes, emphasizing how each member plays an important role. Through shared experiences and open communication, members adapt to each other’s moods and styles, creating music that reflects both individuality and unity.
Looking Ahead to More Creative Opportunities
David is particularly excited about the future and hopes to see the ensemble grow. “I would love to see more people join,” he shares, emphasizing the importance of expanding the community and creating more opportunities to share music together. He is also enthusiastic about upcoming initiatives. “The WEALLHAVEASTORY workshop series is something I’m really looking forward to,” he says. “It brings people together and makes you feel like you’re part of something instead of being isolated.”
Expanding the Impact of High Notes Avante
As awareness grows, High Notes Avante has the potential to reach more individuals, students, aspiring musicians, and those seeking support through mental health challenges. With the help of community support, donors, and partners, this initiative can continue to expand its impact.
“Music is a shared experience,” says David. “It’s about getting out and making music with others.”
Creating Connection, Healing and Hope
High Notes Avante is not just creating music, it is creating connection, healing, and hope. High Notes Avante is more than just a music program. It is a community initiative dedicated to making music accessible to all, regardless of financial barriers. With free lessons, ensemble opportunities, and workshops open to all ages, it provides a safe and inclusive environment for people to explore music while supporting their mental health.
Support That Makes the Ensemble Possible
The High Notes Avante Ensemble is made possible by having volunteers participate in Charitable Gaming at Bingo World Richmond Hill, without whose financial support HNA would not exist. We also appreciate the recent Trillium Foundation Seed grant for the WeAllHaveAStory workshop series.