The Rotary Club of Akron enjoyed a very enlightening presentation by Kitrael Chin. Mr. Chin is the President/Director and Founder of Hearts For Music, Inc., a non-profit 501(c)3. Hearts For Music is the world’s first special needs orchestra that attempts to unite all disabilities of all ages in creating and performing music. Mr. Chin is a Board-Certified Music Therapist (MT-BC) with over 20 years of clinical experience. He has a specialty certificate in Hospice and Palliative Care Music Therapy from the New York Center for End-of-Life Care (HPMT).
Kitrael noted that he has been blessed with the joy and privilege of working with many kids and young adults displaying a wide range of disabilities ranging from mild to severe intellectual disabilities to cerebral palsy and Autism. In 2000, Kitrael started Musical Fingers LLC a music therapy and instruction company in Mantua OH, which to this present day serves many families throughout NE Ohio.
Hearts For Music was created to provide opportunities and avenues for individuals with special needs wanting to pursue their love for creating and performing music in a professional ensemble setting. At the core of Hearts for Music, is an orchestra made up of 20 to 25 children and/or young adults with a variety of special needs. The philosophy behind Hearts For Music
By manipulating and playing a combination of acoustical instruments, digital instruments and adaptive instruments, the Hearts For Music Special Needs program tackles a broad range of musical works ranging from classical symphonies to modern pop and rock.
Where Does Hearts For Music Meet?
Currently HFM have Ohio sites in Brecksville, Mentor/Willoughby and Solon. Additional Hearts For Music sites will be appearing in 2022! The Aurora High School will be adding HFM as part of their daytime school programing in 2022.
Who Can Participate?
While their youngest is 4 years of age, and the oldest is in her 60s, there is no age limitation. Members have diagnoses ranging from Autism to Down syndrome to chromosomal abnormalities such as Turner’s Syndrome. HFM also welcomes children/teens without special needs to participate so that they learn how to be caring and compassionate towards others with special needs.
Do Participants Need to Have Musical Experience?
While an understanding of music is helpful, it is unnecessary for participation. If a child or loved one desires additional music training, HFM can offer recommendations. Kitrael’s philosophy is “Just come with a love and heart for music!”
Can I Help In Any Way?
Absolutely individuals can help! Donors and volunteers are at the heart of Hearts For Music. Please consider donating to HFM or contacting them about being a volunteer. Volunteers don’t need formal music training, just a love for music and a sincere desire to see each child succeed. Even simply spreading the word about Hearts For Music on social media is a big help.
For more information individuals can check out their website at www.heartsformusic.org.
Here are some photos shared during the presentation. Watch the recording - Kitrael shares a moving video of the kids playing! Click here or copy and paste this link https://youtu.be/SsOULu7cTA0 | |
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