For Andrea, music has always been a source of joy and hope. When her three daughtersβLaura, Caitlin, and their younger sister Alyssaβbegan to struggle with academics, anxiety, and self-esteem, Andrea turned to homeschooling as a solution. What she didnβt anticipate was how a chance encounter with the High Notes Avante music program would become a turning point for her family.
Andrea first learned about High Notes Avante through an advertisement in Mill Pond Magazine, offering free music lessons to children touched by mental health. The programβs mission resonated deeply. With limited resources to provide her daughters with regular music lessons, the opportunity felt like a giftβand it was.
Building Confidence Through Music
For Laura, the eldest, music became more than an extracurricular activity. Struggling with anxiety and ADHD, she faced challenges in the traditional school system that left her self-esteem shattered. Switching to homeschooling had already begun to boost her confidence, but it was music that truly transformed her.
With one-on-one instruction from Stephanie, Laura discovered a talent for the saxophone and excelled at playing by ear. The joy of learning new pieces, from worship songs to Christmas carols, not only gave her confidence but also taught her discipline and perseverance.
βLaura has shown a talent for playing by ear… Her confidence and love for learning improved significantly.β Andrea shared.
Nurturing Hidden Talents
Caitlin, the familyβs middle child, found her creative outlet through the clarinet and piano. With guidance from Joshua, another dedicated High Notes Avante teacher, Caitlin blossomed musically. βββShe has had some lessons with Joshua and has really excelled fast and is moving really quickly through piano and through her clarinet. Sheβs just loving it at the moment,β Andrea says. Her ability to play complex melodies and her growing love for the piano filled their home with musicβand positivity.
The youngest child, Alyssa, who also has ADHD, began exploring the piano and surprised everyone with her progress. βSheβs been learning the piano for about 10 weeks now and sheβs just so happy that she can do something that comes easily to her, especially after her struggles in school,β Andrea shared. βShe looks forward to it every week and is super excited to show me and my husband what sheβs learning.β
A Familyβs Journey to Resilience
The familyβs journey hasnβt been without its struggles. Andrea openly shared the emotional challenges her daughters have faced, from academic hurdles to feelings of hopelessness. Homeschooling, while rewarding, has required immense dedication and effort on Andreaβs part. Music, however, has been the bridge that connects their academic progress with emotional healing.
Andrea spoke about how the program has taught her children responsibility and resilience. “Iβve seen them take on responsibility in the way they take care of their instruments and keep up with practicing,β she said. βItβs more than just music – this will, hopefully, teach them to preserve and push through challenges later in life.β
The Role of High Notes Avante
The personalized lessons offered through High Notes Avante have been critical for the family. Andrea noted that even if her daughters were in a school band, the one-on-one instruction they receive through the program is unmatched.
“The HNA teachers are amazing,β Andrea said. βThe one-on-one nature of the lessons really helps, especially when kids might be struggling with things like ADHD and anxiety. The caliber of teachers is really high and theyβre very patient and kind.β
The program has also eased the familyβs financial burden. Andrea expressed her gratitude for the free lessons, explaining that without them, her daughters would not have had the opportunity to develop their musical talents.
Looking Ahead: Performances and Possibilities
The familyβs musical journey has already begun to touch others. Laura and Caitlin are preparing to perform at a retirement center for seniors, showcasing the skills and confidence theyβve gained through High Notes Avante.
Ingrid Taheri, Founder of High Notes Avante, encouraged the girls to participate in the upcoming January 22nd event celebrating the programβs achievements. βItβs a chance to celebrate not just the music, but the resilience and growth these children have shown,βΒ
A Call to Action
Andreaβs story is just one of many that highlight the transformative power of High Notes Avante. The program provides not only instruments and lessons but also a lifeline to families navigating mental health challenges.
As Ingrid pointed out, the programβs ability to continue relies heavily on community support and donations. βWeβre committed to making music accessible to all, but we canβt do it alone,β she said.
For Andrea and her daughters, High Notes Avante has been a beacon of hope. βThe High Notes Music Program has been very helpful,β Andrea reflected. βItβs given my daughters a sense of accomplishment, something to be proud of.β
HIGH NOTES AVANTE celebrated our 10th anniversary in 2024. Please visit the website below to register or find out more about our free programs, watch concert footage, testimonials or make a donation to support us.