An upcoming concert will raise money to bring free music lessons to underserved youth in Chilliwack.
Empower Through Music Society presents 'A Night of Stories, Songs and Impact' on April 5 at The Vineyard Community Centre.
The charitable society brings music lessons at no cost to marginalized children in Vancouver and North Vancouver, and organizer Kris Schulz now wants to expand it to his hometown of Chilliwack.
"Music changes lives – it provides hope, connection, and opportunity for those who need it most. This fundraiser is more than just a show; it’s a call to action," he said. "Your support will help provide lessons, instruments, and mentorship to at-risk youth who wouldn’t otherwise have access."
The by-donation concert will start with opening act Ethan Smith, followed by Schulz's set, then a collaboration with artist Senny, and closing with a headline performance from Solomon Standing.
Every ticket purchased and donation made helps provide music lessons, instruments, and opportunities to kids aged five to 17. The society provides group lessons inside classrooms, one-on-one lessons, small-group lessons, and virtual music classes.
"All proceeds from the April 5 show will go directly toward launching our Empower Through Music program in Chilliwack, guided by local leaders like Jared Mumford, on where we can create maximum impact and efficacy," Schulz said.
Mumford, who plays everything from metal to jazz, has been playing music for 30 years. He and Schulz grew up together in Chilliwack and used to play in the same bands.
"Music has been one of the few steady, positive forces in my life – it's brought me strength, healing, and expression. When learned with an open heart, music becomes its own language," Mumford said.
"Empower Through Music is about teaching that language, that creative expression to marginalized youth who are often excluded from traditional music programs. Bringing it to Chilliwack means finally offering neurodiverse youth and those with disabilities access to creative, innovative and inclusive music education – something our community has been missing."
Schulz is doing another fundraiser with money also going towards the music program. He's taking on a Guinness World Record attempt for the longest non-stop guitar lesson, and he needs the public to help him do it.
"The current record stands at 24 hours and six minutes, but we’re about to take it even further," Schulz said.
His attempt will be to go for 25 hours, starting Sunday, April 6 at 6 p.m. and ending the following day at 7 p.m. It will take place on-site at Horizon School of Music in Vancouver and online for those who cannot attend in-person. Those wanting to take part can sign up for one of the 50 half-hour slots by emailing info@empowerthroughmusic.org. The cost is $50.
A Night of Stories, Songs and Impact, an Empower Through Music Society fundraiser, is Saturday, April 5 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at The Vineyard Community Centre (45892 Wellington Ave.). Tickets $10 or by donation. For tickets and more info, go to empowerthroughmusic.org/events, or call/text 604-719-1715.
