Joanna About the HNA Wellness Class
“That hour provides a mental break for me,” says Joanna. “When I hear others’ stories, I realize I’m not alone. It helps me feel more confident and believe in myself.”
For Joanna, music has always been a part of life, but rediscovering it through High Notes Avante became something much deeper: a pathway to healing, confidence, and connection.
After stepping away from music following the birth of her child, Joanna lost touch with her former colleague Ingrid. Years later, while going through old contacts, she came across Ingrid’s number and decided to reconnect. To her surprise, the number was still active. Ingrid, now the Founder and Executive Director of High Notes Avante, shared information about the wellness program, and that moment became Joanna’s introduction to a journey she hadn’t expected to rediscover.
What started as curiosity quickly turned into commitment.
By Marilyn Borges
A Kind, Supportive and Well-Prepared Instructor
“At first, I just wanted to try it and see what it’s about,” she shares. “But I really liked Laura. She’s kind, supportive, and always well-prepared. That is why I continued.”
Led by instructor Laura Street, the program goes beyond traditional music lessons. Each session blends music, reflection, movement, and group sharing, creating a safe and welcoming space for participants from all walks of life.
“It’s not just about music skills,” Joanna explains. “It connects with people’s lives and supports mental health. That’s what makes it different.”
A Personal Experience of Music and Mental Wellness
As a music teacher herself and a parent of a child with special needs, Joanna has witnessed firsthand the transformative power of music. Through High Notes Avante, she experienced that transformation on a personal level.
“That hour is like a mental break for me,” she says. “When I hear others’ stories, I realize I’m not alone. It helps me feel more confident and believe in myself.”
Joanna describes the wellness program as “positive, supportive, and connecting,” a space where individuals can step away from the pressures of daily life and find calm, community, and purpose.
A Great Opportunity More People Should Know About
Despite offering high-quality programming at no cost, High Notes Avante remains one of the region’s best-kept secrets.
“I’m surprised not more people know about it,” Joanna admits. “It’s such a great opportunity. People really need this kind of support.”
As Joanna puts it simply: “Just give it a try, you might find exactly what you need.”
A Growing Community Dedicated to Mental Wellness
High Notes Avante offers more than a music program, it is a growing community dedicated to mental wellness, inclusion, and human connection. Whether you are seeking support, looking to give back, or hoping to invest in meaningful community impact, this registered charity offers a powerful opportunity to make a difference.
To support, donate, or join High Notes Avante, now is the time to be part of a movement that is changing lives, one note at a time.
SEE OUR PROGRAMMING AND APPLY HERE
Support That Makes the Wellness Class Possible
The High Notes Avante Wellness Class is made possible by having volunteers participate in Charitable Gaming at Rama East in Toronto.