Discovering High Notes Avante
It was during a routine visit to the local library that their path took a fortunate turn. “I went to the library one day and my mom usually looks at their ads and their magazines, and then she saw the High Notes Avante advert there,” Nika recalls. The advertisement for free music lessons struck a chord with Nasim, particularly as the family was adjusting to their new life without a steady income. “It was a good chance. The title that attracted me was the free music lessons,” Nasim says, reflecting on how crucial this opportunity was for them.
The Gift of Music and Mentorship
Under the tutelage of High Notes guitar teacher Alina Grunina, Nika has not only learned to play the guitar but has also found a mentor. “Alina is a really good teacher. She is really passionate and teaches me very well, and I’ve learned these things really fast,” Nika enthuses.
Music as a Catalyst for Healing and Hope
The therapeutic power of music has been especially poignant for the family as they faced another severe blow—Nika’s father’s diagnosis with lung cancer. “Our situation became harder because a lot of things happened at once, and one of the most important was my husband’s sickness and his need to return to Iran,” Nasim reveals, detailing the painful choice her husband made to return for treatment. Even from afar, he continues to inspire and support Nika, providing strength and encouragement as she navigates her challenges. This profound influence underscores the pivotal role family support plays in their resilience and adaptability.
During these trials, music has provided Nika with a way to cope and stay hopeful. “As this situation might be hard, music helps me get through it, especially with the opportunities I find,” Nika shares. Her resolve is mirrored by her mother’s determination to give back to the community that has supported them so warmly. “One of the most important things that I will do is to do something for High Notes because the opportunity that High Notes gave to us was really precious,” Nasim vows.
A Milestone Performance: Nika Takes the Stage
Amidst the challenges of settling into a new country, a significant highlight for Nika was her performance at HNA’s Jan 22 “Let’s Make Music” event, an opportunity that marked her first public showcase in Canada. “It was really soon for me to go and play in front of a lot of people,” Nika explains, her voice tinged with excitement. Despite the nerves, this experience offered her a platform to demonstrate her burgeoning talent on the guitar, an instrument she had only recently begun learning through High Notes Avante.
Nika’s preparation for the event was minimal, which only added to her anxiety. “I thought I was going to have one chance to be on the stage and just practice, but I didn’t get the chance because I maybe came a bit late,” she recounts. Yet, once on stage, the support and guidance from her teacher, Alina, reassured her. “Alina said it was good, but my nervousness took the better of me. Because of that, I might have screwed up a time or two on stage,” she admits. However, the thrill of performing and the audience’s warm reception made it a formative and unforgettable moment.
For Nasim, watching her daughter perform was an emotionally profound experience. “That was so amazing,” she reflects, her pride evident. “And because, at that time, my husband came back to Iran, I was so hopeless and maybe I think that some of my dreams came true about Nika, and I became more confident that the way we chose was the right decision.” Witnessing Nika on stage not only bolstered her spirits during a particularly trying time but also affirmed their decision to pursue a new life in Canada.
Nika’s performance at the event wasn’t just about showcasing her musical skills; it was a moment of personal triumph and a testament to her resilience and adaptability. It also embodied High Notes Avante’s mission to provide opportunities for those who might find them difficult to access otherwise, making it a poignant reminder of the power of community support and the arts in healing and growth.
Looking Forward – Music and Beyond
As for the future, Nika sees music as a permanent part of her life, intertwined with her academic and professional aspirations.”I really want to go the music path. That’s exactly what I’ve been thinking about my jobs too,” she states confidently. This blend of passion and pragmatism underscores a young woman poised to make her mark, inspired by her cultural heritage and new opportunities ahead.
In the melody of their lives, each note played by Nika and orchestrated by High Notes Avante sings of resilience, adaptability, and the enduring strength of family and community.
Listen to HNA’s Mental Health Anthem.
Nika is part of the High Notes Music Program which is made possibly by ongoing funding from Bingo World Richmond Hill. if you would also like to support us or participate, kindly visit our website
highnotesavante.ca
