Giving musical instruments
brings immense joy
Once again, we’ve been able to provide musical instruments to five Ukrainian refugees. We’d like to share an update about these special encounters. Often, such happiness can’t be put into words: “Thank you for making my dream come true.”
A beautiful Harvey Benton electric guitar has arrived at the Participe Amstelland shelter. There, it’s proving to be an exceptional asset in the after-school program, where music is a favorite activity for all the students. In the photo, Rostik (right) might be on his way to a career as a pop star? In any case, he (who fled with his mother and grandmother) can momentarily put his worries aside and dream of better times together with his bandmates.
Varvara (10) is from Kyiv and has seen her heart’s desire come true with this acoustic guitar. Vincent, who gave her the gift, was deeply impressed by the girl and by the care with which her host family and caregivers in Hazerswoude surround Varvara. To make it easier for her to play, he personally bought a capo and had a minor repair done; upon hearing his story, The Music House in Utrecht immediately offered a discount. In the photo, Varvara gives the word “radiate” a whole new meaning.
Accordionist Valerii is a bit older (72) and very happy with his beautiful Italian accordion. It’s clear that a lot of effort went into this photo, which wasn’t taken at a rural fair in Ukraine, but at a shelter in Ruinen.
Of a completely different nature was the appeal from Natalia (viola player with the Kyiv Chamber Orchestra and the National Philharmonic of Ukraine). She had already acquired a good viola, but unfortunately it came with a very poor-quality bow. Marie-Louise de Jong of the Dudok Quartet Amsterdam responded almost immediately. She had a good “spare” bow available and was happy to lend it to Natalia. A wonderful gesture of collegiality, which has made Natalia (on the right in the photo) very happy. In her new surroundings near the Belgian border, she can now resume her craft with renewed enthusiasm!
The story of Zakhar (16 years old). He composes, loves to improvise, and was in the process of forming a band in Ukraine. In a long email, he told us about the morning when he was still worried about a physics test when the first bombing shattered his world and he had to leave everything behind. Now that he has access to a good digital piano at the reception center in Deurne, he can lose himself in intense or dreamy improvisations. From his email: “Thank you for making my dream come true. I’m forever indebted.”
Although these musicians may not all be on their way to a top career in music, the positive impact of making music together is abundantly clear. Their lives regain a sense of purpose and structure; plans are made, and friendships are formed. Instruments that may have been half-forgotten in the attic are given a second life and bring these refugees immense happiness and fulfillment!
Want more information?
You can read more about this emergency relief campaign by the Musical Instrument Fund on this page. There you can find out how to help us provide instruments for refugees or make a monetary donation. Thank you very much!
This campaign is supported by:
