Elemental Music would not be the same without the many passionate volunteers who dedicate their time and talents to support our young musicians and our programs.
We want to recognize some of our superstar volunteers who help make our programs possible through their generosity of time, talent, and spirit…and plain old hard work!
Michael is a high school musician who we met this year through our volunteer program. Whether he is helping on our stage crew for concerts during a marathon concert day (literally ALL day! three concerts!) or even helping us mail out a batch of newsletters, Michael has been an invaluable member of the Elemental Music family this year. We are so lucky to have met him through his community service work, and are thrilled to introduce you to him today. Read on to learn more about Michael and his volunteer story!
Elemental Music: How did you first become involved in volunteering with Elemental Music?
Michael: I was first introduced to volunteering with Elemental Music by my music teacher in high school. I was looking for community service but I didn’t just want to do something random. When I found Elemental Music, I saw it as a great opportunity to both get my community service hours while also helping out with something that I’ve really enjoyed doing since I was a little kid: playing music in an orchestra.
EM: With so many commitments in life, why did you choose to carve out time for volunteering?
Michael: When I started playing the violin in an orchestra, I was in elementary school. At that time it was difficult for my family to find a good music tutor at an affordable cost. We found someone but due to both incompatibility and the cost, I didn’t continue for a long time with her. I really respect what Elemental Music is doing for the little kids – providing opportunities for them to learn from great music teachers at an affordable cost.
EM: If you could be any superhero while volunteering, who would you be and why?
Michael: If I could be any superhero, I would probably be Flash so I could help out as much as I can. I could move fast and help out with several things at the same time, setting up over there and helping someone else over here!
EM: Could you share a memorable moment while volunteering for Elemental Music?
Michael: It would be the first concert I volunteered at. I signed up for the morning session but I decided to stay and continue helping out. Seeing the little third and fourth graders in the concert, already playing advanced music for their age and sounding very good, was a memorable moment. It made me think of where it could lead them in the future!
EM: How has volunteering helped you connect with others, or build relationships within your community?
Michael: Helping with Elemental Music has honestly connected me to many great people from my school and outside of school a community of musicians who want to help younger musicians to improve and carry on the tradition. I’ve been able to establish great connections with people that I volunteered with. Now they’re my friends!
EM: What would you say to someone who is considering volunteering but doesn't feel like they have enough time or resources to do so?
Michael: I would tell them to try it out and see for themselves. They might find it really fulfilling!
Interested in getting involved as a volunteer with our programs? Email Juanita Devis for more information!