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DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251006T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251006T120000
DTSTAMP:20260813T022008
CREATED:20250817T205045Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250826T212117Z
UID:10000051-1759744800-1759752000@promiseofmusic.com
SUMMARY:Monday Film Screening: Sing Sing
DESCRIPTION:A key theme of The Promise of Music is the healing power of creative performance\, as this Academy Award nominated 2023 film brilliantly dramatizes. The performing arts\, whether musical or theatrical\, nurture inner growth and the ability to reach within and learn compassion\, trust\, empathy\, self-esteem\, and teamwork. \nThe film was inspired by John H. Richardson’s Esquire article\, “The Sing Sing Follies\,” about a musical review presented by the Rehabilitation Through the Arts (RTA) program. Operating in eight New York State correctional institutions\, the program has achieved great success in curbing recidivism\, with only 3% of participants returning to prison. \nDivine G (Colman Domingo)\, imprisoned at Sing Sing for a crime he didn’t commit\, finds purpose by acting in a theatre group with other incarcerated men. When a wary outsider joins the group\, the men decide to stage their first original comedy. It’s a stirring true story of resilience\, humanity\, and the transformative power of art\, starring an unforgettable ensemble cast of formerly incarcerated actors. “Sing Sing” garnered 3 Academy Award nominations and earned 97% positive reviews on Rotten Tomatoes. \n“Sing Sing . . . powerful\, deeply felt drama takes theatre behind bars.”\n– The Guardian \n“When we think of the best prison movies ever made\, ‘The Shawshank Redemption’ . . . immediately comes to mind . . . We can now add the gloriously lionhearted and brilliantly rendered “Sing Sing” to that list.”\n– Chicago Sun-Times
URL:https://promiseofmusic.com/event/monday-film-screening-sing-sing/
LOCATION:Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema\, 506 Bloor St W\, Toronto\, ON\, M5S 1Y3\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Film Screening
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://promiseofmusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/sing_sing_2024_1.png
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251006T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251006T151500
DTSTAMP:20260813T022008
CREATED:20250817T205045Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250826T155507Z
UID:10000020-1759759200-1759763700@promiseofmusic.com
SUMMARY:Jamie Bernstein on the Power of Music and Media
DESCRIPTION:Join this special appearance by author\, narrator\, director and filmmaker Jamie Bernstein. Her 2018 memoir\, Famous Father Girl is about growing up with legendary composer-conductor Leonard Bernstein\, subject of the Academy Award nominated 2023 film\, Maestro. She has written and narrated concerts about Mozart\, Aaron Copland and Stravinsky\, as well as “The Bernstein Beat\,” a family concert about her father. Jamie will discuss her father’s artistry and career and ground-breaking use of mass media for music education and appreciation.
URL:https://promiseofmusic.com/event/jamie-bernstein-on-the-power-of-music-and-media/
LOCATION:The Creative School Chrysalis\, 43 Gerrard St E\, Toronto\, ON\, M5G 2A7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Forum
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://promiseofmusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Jamie-Bernstein.png
GEO:43.6593;-79.3799
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=The Creative School Chrysalis 43 Gerrard St E Toronto ON M5G 2A7 Canada;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=43 Gerrard St E:geo:-79.3799,43.6593
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251006T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251006T163000
DTSTAMP:20260813T022008
CREATED:20250817T205045Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250826T163022Z
UID:10000021-1759764600-1759768200@promiseofmusic.com
SUMMARY:Music and the Arts – Saving Society Billions Through Enhanced Wellness
DESCRIPTION:Frontier Economics is one of the world’s largest economics research firms with a staff of over 500. In 2024\, Frontier Economics completed a major study for the UK government examining the impacts of arts\, culture and heritage on the health and well-being of British people. Using a broad spectrum of evidence and new economic modelling\, Frontier Economics took the bold step of determining the economic impact of arts engagement on the population\, based on health and well-being and savings in healthcare costs\, increased productivity\, etc.). \nThe results were startling. \nNot only did the evidence show that engagement with the arts enhanced people’s wellness\, it also saved government money – a lot of money. \nFrontier Economics did not consider the benefits from tourism\, hospitality\, employment\, etc.\, (as real as those are)\, but focused specifically on wellness. The Frontier Economics research found a value in healthcare and other public expenditure savings of as much as $15 billion CAD annually. Consider how much greater the impact would be with an even more robust public investment. \nMatthew Bell\, Director of Frontier Economics presents the findings of the report\, and its implications both for public policy\, and for the health\, wellness and life satisfaction of people everywhere.
URL:https://promiseofmusic.com/event/music-and-the-arts-saving-society-billions-through-enhanced-wellness/
LOCATION:The Creative School Chrysalis\, 43 Gerrard St E\, Toronto\, ON\, M5G 2A7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Forum
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://promiseofmusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Music-and-the-Arts.png
GEO:43.6593;-79.3799
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251006T164500
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251006T174500
DTSTAMP:20260813T022008
CREATED:20250817T205045Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251008T191406Z
UID:10000022-1759769100-1759772700@promiseofmusic.com
SUMMARY:Positive Fatalism: Music-Making in the Harsh Realities of Kinshasa
DESCRIPTION:Drawing on nearly two decades of field research in Kinshasa\, Democratic Republic of Congo\, Dr. Pairon will introduce the concept of ‘positive fatalism’ relating how the art of music-making may empower people to live with dignity amidst the unimaginable challenges\, dangers\, structural injustice\, and hardships of daily life. \nRead Dr. Pairon’s keynote here. 
URL:https://promiseofmusic.com/event/positive-fatalism-music-making-in-the-harsh-realities-of-kinshasa/
LOCATION:The Creative School Chrysalis\, 43 Gerrard St E\, Toronto\, ON\, M5G 2A7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Forum
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://promiseofmusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Positive-Fatalism.png
GEO:43.6593;-79.3799
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=The Creative School Chrysalis 43 Gerrard St E Toronto ON M5G 2A7 Canada;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=43 Gerrard St E:geo:-79.3799,43.6593
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251006T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251006T233000
DTSTAMP:20260813T022008
CREATED:20250817T205045Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250926T210647Z
UID:10000069-1759777200-1759793400@promiseofmusic.com
SUMMARY:The Glenn Gould Foundation Presents: The Promise of Music Celebration
DESCRIPTION:Join us for a night of music and magic as we kick off a week of fantastic events for The Promise of Music at the Aga Khan Museum! \nThe Promise of Music: The First World Congress on the Social Impact of Music opens with a joyous celebration featuring amazing artists from all over the world. Come experience the Afghan National Institute of Music\, the Firdaus Orchestra from Dubai\, The Recycled Orchestra of Cateura\, the Sistema New Brunswick Children’s Orchestra\, Memphis-based dancer Lil Buck\, and many\, many more.  Meet the performers\, explore the galleries\, and visit the bubble sound and light installation at the museum. \nWith Viggo Mortensen\, emcee\, and a keynote by General Romeo Dallaire\, the evening will be jam-packed with incredible performances and inspiration.
URL:https://promiseofmusic.com/event/the-glenn-gould-foundation-presents-the-promise-of-music-celebration/
LOCATION:Nanji Family Foundation Auditorium at the Aga Khan Museum\, 77 Wynford Drive\, Toronto\, ON\, M3C 1K1\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Public Performance
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://promiseofmusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Opening-night-Glenn-Gould.png
GEO:43.7252855;-79.3320349
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251007T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251007T103000
DTSTAMP:20260813T022008
CREATED:20250817T205045Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250826T160648Z
UID:10000061-1759827600-1759833000@promiseofmusic.com
SUMMARY:Music Education – Transforming Children’s Lives
DESCRIPTION:Across the planet\, social initiatives rooted in the teaching of music have shown the powerful impact that this form of creative expression\, collective engagement and personal development can have on the lives and futures of children and youth. The programs presented in this panel hail from diverse cultural and social environments\, and address different needs and challenges among the students they serve. Despite these differences\, our speakers will draw upon their lived experience\, and that of their students\, to identify the common threads that make their work successful\, impactful and life-changing\, with lessons that can benefit children and communities everywhere.
URL:https://promiseofmusic.com/event/music-education-transforming-childrens-lives/
LOCATION:The Creative School Chrysalis\, 43 Gerrard St E\, Toronto\, ON\, M5G 2A7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Forum
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://promiseofmusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Music-Education-Transforming-Childrens-Lives.jpg
GEO:43.6593;-79.3799
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251007T103000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251007T115000
DTSTAMP:20260813T022008
CREATED:20250817T205045Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250826T212229Z
UID:10000074-1759833000-1759837800@promiseofmusic.com
SUMMARY:Tuesday Film Screening: The Soloist
DESCRIPTION:Inspired by the book\, The Soloist: A Lost Dream\, an Unlikely Friendship\, and The Redemptive Power of Music\, this 2009 film tells the true story of Nathaniel Ayers\, a Juilliard-trained former musical prodigy whose schizophrenia has landed him on the streets of Los Angeles. The Soloist stars Jamie Foxx as Nathaniel Ayers and Robert Downey Jr. as Steve Lopez\, a journalist who befriends Ayers after hearing him play on Skid Row. As Lopez learns more about Ayers and a once promising career derailed by mental illness\, he determines to help undo the tragedy of a talent so remarkable relegated to the streets As Lopez embarks on a quixotic quest to help Ayers pull his life together and launch a career in music\, he gradually comes to realize that it is not Ayers whose life is being transformed\, but his own. Powerfully and poignantly\, the Soloist captures the lifeline that music – and friendship – can provide\, even in the face of inner pain and turmoil. \n“Music remains the only medicine he willingly takes. Absorbed in Beethoven\, Bach or Brahms\, he is momentarily healed and temporarily freed from his demons. Sometimes\, as he’s lifted by a musical swell\, his eyes fill. I always wonder if it’s the beauty that tugs at him or if it’s thoughts of what might have been if schizophrenia hadn’t stolen his dream.”\n– Steve Lopez \nHear Steve Lopez talk about his friend\, Nathaniel Ayers\, here.
URL:https://promiseofmusic.com/event/tuesday-film-screening-the-soloist/
LOCATION:Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema\, 506 Bloor St W\, Toronto\, ON\, M5S 1Y3\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Film Screening
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://promiseofmusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Soloist2009_18.png
GEO:43.6655516;-79.4104688
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema 506 Bloor St W Toronto ON M5S 1Y3 Canada;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=506 Bloor St W:geo:-79.4104688,43.6655516
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251007T104500
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251007T114500
DTSTAMP:20260813T022008
CREATED:20250817T205045Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250825T173621Z
UID:10000059-1759833900-1759837500@promiseofmusic.com
SUMMARY:Music and Social Prescribing – Holistic Health and Wellness
DESCRIPTION:In an era of constrained resources and an over-taxed health care system\, we can and must find better and more cost-effective ways to enhance health and wellness across the population by addressing the social determinants of health: the conditions in which people are born\, grow\, live\, work and age. \nHealth is affected by numerous social factors that arise long before the need for physicians and hospitals becomes acute: loneliness\, nutrition\, emotional and home support\, education\, one’s physical environment\, availability of cultural and social engagement\, to name a few. Addressing these needs in a way that can save health care dollars\, relieve stresses on the medical system and produce better health outcomes is the essence of the movement called Social Prescribing. Social prescribing holistically unites clinical and social care by referring patients to local\, non-clinical services that are chosen according to the client’s interests\, goals\, and gifts. \nOur panelists draw upon a wealth of real-world experience to discuss the powerful role that learning music and access to musical culture can play as a social prescribing aid to the wellness of our children.
URL:https://promiseofmusic.com/event/music-and-social-prescribing-holistic-health-and-wellness/
LOCATION:The Creative School Chrysalis\, 43 Gerrard St E\, Toronto\, ON\, M5G 2A7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Forum
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://promiseofmusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Music-and-Social-Prescribing-–-Holistic-Health-and-Wellness-1.png
GEO:43.6593;-79.3799
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=The Creative School Chrysalis 43 Gerrard St E Toronto ON M5G 2A7 Canada;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=43 Gerrard St E:geo:-79.3799,43.6593
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251007T124500
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251007T134500
DTSTAMP:20260813T022008
CREATED:20250817T205045Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250823T140848Z
UID:10000062-1759841100-1759844700@promiseofmusic.com
SUMMARY:Music in Exile: the Struggle to Preserve Culture
DESCRIPTION:Dr. Ahmad Sarmast is the visionary Founder and Director of the Afghanistan National Institute of Music (ANIM)\, established in Kabul after the fall of the Taliban in 2001. ANIM was created as a modern\, inclusive conservatory\, welcoming children in need\, and open to girls\, who had long been banned from access to education. ANIM sought to rescue and revive Afghanistan’s rich\, musical heritage which was nearly eradicated under Taliban rule. \nSarmast’s mission came at great personal risk. Despite death threats and a targeted suicide bombing that left him with grave injuries\, Sarmast persisted and ANIM flourished\, until the sudden return of the Taliban in 2021. \nHe refused to be deterred. After several months in hiding\, and in an extraordinary act of defiance and hope\, the students and teachers escaped and re-established the school in Portugal – reborn as a “conservatory in exile.” \nDr. Sarmast vividly recounts and speaks with raw emotion about the harrowing experience\, the ache of separation from home and the enduring strength his students and faculty find in music. Through it all\, he continues to champion music as not only an art form\, but a basic human right.
URL:https://promiseofmusic.com/event/music-in-exile-the-struggle-to-preserve-culture/
LOCATION:The Creative School Chrysalis\, 43 Gerrard St E\, Toronto\, ON\, M5G 2A7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Forum
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://promiseofmusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Music-in-Exile.png
GEO:43.6593;-79.3799
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=The Creative School Chrysalis 43 Gerrard St E Toronto ON M5G 2A7 Canada;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=43 Gerrard St E:geo:-79.3799,43.6593
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251007T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251007T151500
DTSTAMP:20260813T022008
CREATED:20250817T205045Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251006T145720Z
UID:10000060-1759845600-1759850100@promiseofmusic.com
SUMMARY:Music Education – Preserving Culture\, Preventing Erasure
DESCRIPTION:Music is a connecting thread that runs through cultures\, extending from the very origins of identity to today’s contemporary expressions. The central role of music makes it an essential part of who people are and how they understand themselves\, from cultural celebrations and sacred observances\, the telling of folk stories and foundational myths\, sustaining family memories\, and the voicing of hopes and concerns of the present-day. \nYet\, with the passage of time and changes in society or the uprooting of families and populations through traumatic events of displacement\, war and natural disaster\, people can become separated from themselves and their roots\, becoming strangers in strange lands\, or even alienated from their culture while still living in their homelands. \nHear our panelists discuss the vital part music and music education plays in preserving and recovering cultural traditions\, in regaining a sense of rootedness\, and even finding a fresh sense of identity and kinship as they reconcile themselves to their new homes.
URL:https://promiseofmusic.com/event/music-education-preserving-culture-preventing-erasure/
LOCATION:The Creative School Chrysalis\, 43 Gerrard St E\, Toronto\, ON\, M5G 2A7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Forum
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://promiseofmusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Music-Education-Preserving-Culture-1.jpg
GEO:43.6593;-79.3799
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=The Creative School Chrysalis 43 Gerrard St E Toronto ON M5G 2A7 Canada;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=43 Gerrard St E:geo:-79.3799,43.6593
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251007T153000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251007T170000
DTSTAMP:20260813T022008
CREATED:20250817T205045Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250829T140813Z
UID:10000058-1759851000-1759856400@promiseofmusic.com
SUMMARY:Glenn Gould’s Variations and the Human Qualities that Foster Remarkable Human Creativity
DESCRIPTION:Joshua Cohen is a professor of philosophy\, and has taught at MIT\, Stanford and the University of California\, Berkeley\, before joining the faculty of Apple University\, established by Steve Jobs in 2008. Jobs’ goal was to infuse Apple’s employees with a more holistic and creative vision of the company’s mission and values. \nAs part of his three-part series\, “Best Things\,” Prof. Cohen developed this presentation about Glenn Gould and his re-imagining in 1981 of his groundbreaking 1955 hit recording of Bach’s Goldberg Variations. Created for Apple\, and rarely seen outside of Apple University\, Dr. Cohen presents revelatory insights not only about a landmark recording\, but about the richness of ideas that went into its creation. \nThrough this presentation\, illustrated with numerous video clips and penetrating analysis\, Prof. Cohen reveals Gould’s insights about the rich inner workings of a musical masterpiece\, but also his ideas about the ethical dimensions of technology\, and their implications for society and the future of humanity. \nFor those whose lives are touched daily by technology (all of us!)\, and for whom music is essential\, this talk will be a provocative\, stimulating and attitude-changing experience.
URL:https://promiseofmusic.com/event/glenn-goulds-variations-and-the-human-qualities-that-foster-remarkable-human-creativity/
LOCATION:The Creative School Chrysalis\, 43 Gerrard St E\, Toronto\, ON\, M5G 2A7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Forum
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://promiseofmusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Glen-Gould-variations-w_-credit.png
GEO:43.6593;-79.3799
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=The Creative School Chrysalis 43 Gerrard St E Toronto ON M5G 2A7 Canada;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=43 Gerrard St E:geo:-79.3799,43.6593
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251007T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251007T180000
DTSTAMP:20260813T022008
CREATED:20250817T205045Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251007T163246Z
UID:10000052-1759856400-1759860000@promiseofmusic.com
SUMMARY:In Conversation with Chilly Gonzales: Live from Paris
DESCRIPTION:With Special Guest\, Devo Brown\nJoin legendary Grammy-winning Canadian pianist\, composer\, producer\, entertainer and iconoclast Chilly Gonzales for an intimate live virtual conversation\, beamed to you live from Paris.\n \nKnown for his virtuosic piano work\, collaborations with global icons\, and genre-defying approach to music\, Chilly Gonzales will share insights into his extraordinary life in music\, his belief in the importance of rap as the lingua franca of our times\, and one of the world’s most original music education institutions\, his “Gonzervatory.”\n \nThe Gonzervatory is a red-hot crucible that brings together small groups of musicians from diverse backgrounds and cultures around the world every year for an intensive learning experience which fuses them into a musical performing ensemble and creative collective.\n \nLearn about ingenious Gonzervatory concepts like “Musical Push-Ups\,” “Songing” and “Collabulary.”\n \nWith a musical maverick like Chilly Gonzales holding court\, you may never experience music in the same way again. Audience members will also have the unique opportunity to ask questions in real time. \nSupported by John M. Beck
URL:https://promiseofmusic.com/event/chilly-gonzalez/
LOCATION:Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema\, 506 Bloor St W\, Toronto\, ON\, M5S 1Y3\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Public Performance
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://promiseofmusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/2023_PERSO_GONZO_Victor-Picon-52439_COLOR-IA-SQUARE.png
GEO:43.6655516;-79.4104688
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema 506 Bloor St W Toronto ON M5S 1Y3 Canada;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=506 Bloor St W:geo:-79.4104688,43.6655516
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251007T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251007T203000
DTSTAMP:20260813T022008
CREATED:20250817T205105Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250903T130934Z
UID:10000070-1759865400-1759869000@promiseofmusic.com
SUMMARY:The Recycled Orchestra – From Landfill to Legends
DESCRIPTION:It’s an evening of pure joy\, and a story that has caught the world’s imagination. The Recycled Orchestra features gifted young musicians performing timeless music on instruments made entirely of recycled trash. Formed in the impoverished Paraguayan town of Cateura in 2007\, the Recycled Orchestra is the fruit of a program designed to provide young people orchestral training\, and the rich life skills that come with it\, all fueled by the joy of music. \nDubbed “the Landfill Harmonic\,” the ensemble’s instruments are amazing re-inventions\, created using materials salvaged from their town’s one industry\, an enormous landfill. Cellos are fashioned from oil drums\, saxophones made from drainpipes\, drumheads from old X-films. The Recycled Orchestra is transformation incarnate\, both turning garbage into an orchestra and lives of hopelessness into ones of inspiration and purpose. The ensemble has toured the world\, even performing with Metallica and Stevie Wonder\, and the subject of a new musical debuting next year\, Basura\, by Gloria Estefan.
URL:https://promiseofmusic.com/event/the-recycled-orchestra-from-landfill-to-legends/
LOCATION:Nanji Family Foundation Auditorium at the Aga Khan Museum\, 77 Wynford Drive\, Toronto\, ON\, M3C 1K1\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Public Performance
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://promiseofmusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/The-Recycled-Orchestra-of-Cateura-02.png
GEO:43.7252855;-79.3320349
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Nanji Family Foundation Auditorium at the Aga Khan Museum 77 Wynford Drive Toronto ON M3C 1K1 Canada;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=77 Wynford Drive:geo:-79.3320349,43.7252855
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251007T200000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251007T210000
DTSTAMP:20260813T022008
CREATED:20250817T205105Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250830T130756Z
UID:10000047-1759867200-1759870800@promiseofmusic.com
SUMMARY:Afghanistan National Institute of Music: The Inextinguishable Flame
DESCRIPTION:Soon after the Taliban’s initial withdrawal in 2001\, Dr. Ahmad Sarmast founded the Afghanistan National Institute of Music (ANIM) in Kabul\, and against all odds\, a global phenomenon was born. Tirelessly working to reverse years of Taliban efforts to eradicate a glorious centuries-old musical culture\, Sarmast and his unrelenting teachers created a school offering lessons to disadvantaged children including orphans and girls. Not even a suicide bomber during a student concert\, in which Sarmast was seriously wounded\, or the Taliban’s decree banning music entirely and forbidding expression by women\, could silence ANIM\, now continuing its mission from exile in Portugal. Their world tours have included sold out shows at the Kennedy Center and Carnegie Hall.
URL:https://promiseofmusic.com/event/afghanistan-national-institute-of-music-the-inextinguishable-flame/
LOCATION:The Creative School Chrysalis\, 43 Gerrard St E\, Toronto\, ON\, M5G 2A7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Public Performance
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://promiseofmusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/ANIM.png
GEO:43.6593;-79.3799
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=The Creative School Chrysalis 43 Gerrard St E Toronto ON M5G 2A7 Canada;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=43 Gerrard St E:geo:-79.3799,43.6593
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251007T200000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251007T210000
DTSTAMP:20260813T022008
CREATED:20250817T205105Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251003T142005Z
UID:10000057-1759867200-1759870800@promiseofmusic.com
SUMMARY:Firdaus Orchestra: Symphonic Traditions From the East and West
DESCRIPTION:Experience the trailblazing Firdaus Orchestra\, an all-female ensemble whose name means “paradise” in Arabic and whose spirit embodies empowerment and unity. Comprised of exceptional musicians from nearly 30 countries\, Firdaus share their talents while inspiring young women to unlock their potential\, express themselves freely and pursue careers in music without limits. \nFounded for Expo 2020 Dubai by Her Excellency\, Reem Al Hashimy\, Minister of State for International Cooperation of the United Arab Emirates\, the Firdaus Orchestra has grown into a powerful symbol of cultural exchange and gender inclusion. Performing as a 50-member ensemble that blends Western symphonic traditions with traditional Arabic instruments and musical heritage\, they offer an exceptional repertoire that spans continents and centuries. It is the vanguard of a UAE-wide music education initiative. \nSupported by Harps on the Hill
URL:https://promiseofmusic.com/event/firdaus-orchestra-symphonic-traditions-from-the-east-and-west/
LOCATION:Koerner Hall\, 273 Bloor St W\, Toronto\, ON\, M5S 1V6\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Public Performance
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://promiseofmusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/uc-65-scaled.jpeg
GEO:43.6679988;-79.3965985
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Koerner Hall 273 Bloor St W Toronto ON M5S 1V6 Canada;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=273 Bloor St W:geo:-79.3965985,43.6679988
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251008T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251008T100000
DTSTAMP:20260813T022008
CREATED:20250817T205105Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251006T144143Z
UID:10000018-1759914000-1759917600@promiseofmusic.com
SUMMARY:Music\, Trauma and the Developing Brain
DESCRIPTION:What are the unique qualities of music that make it such a powerful force in the early development of children\, whether lullabies at bedtime\, singing nursery rhymes\, jumping in time to skipping songs\, or the endlessly repeated playback of  tunes heard on-line?  \nHow does music contribute to a young child’s bonding\, emotional development\, cognitive maturation\, socialization\, mood regulation and development of peer relationships? Hear our panellists discuss not only how the formative impacts of an active engagement with music listening and learning advances the young child’s development\, but also the implications for lifelong resiliency\, wellness and success. 
URL:https://promiseofmusic.com/event/music-trauma-and-the-developing-brain/
LOCATION:TMU Pod 250\, 350 Victoria Street\, Toronto\, ON\, M5B 2K3\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Forum
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://promiseofmusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Music-Trauma-and-Developing-Brain.jpg
GEO:43.6593;-79.3799
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=TMU Pod 250 350 Victoria Street Toronto ON M5B 2K3 Canada;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=350 Victoria Street:geo:-79.3799,43.6593
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251008T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251008T103000
DTSTAMP:20260813T022008
CREATED:20250817T205105Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250822T224743Z
UID:10000042-1759914000-1759919400@promiseofmusic.com
SUMMARY:El Sistema at 50 - The Movement that Started it All
DESCRIPTION:In 1975\, Venezuelan economist and musician Dr. José Antonio Abreu had the idea of expanding the reach of music education to make it available more widely to the young people of his country. Beginning with 11 students meeting initially in the only available space\, an underground parking lot\, Abreu worked relentlessly to expand the program\, which quickly evolved into the movement popularly nicknamed “El Sistema” (the System).  \nIn Abreu’s vision\, learning music was a form of social action to nurture better citizens for whom there should be no barriers to access\, regardless of a child’s economic circumstances\, challenges\, or special needs and abilities. Using the orchestra as a model society (“whose only purpose is to be in harmony with itself”)\, El Sistema grew to include teaching centres (“nucleos”) in economically challenged neighbourhoods with persistent problems of crime\, gangs and drug use\, in juvenile correctional facilities\, as well as programs run by Indigenous communities\, others serving youth with special needs and disabilities\, and programs teaching the art of instrument making and repair. With its toddler-to young adult program\, emphasis on group learning\, play and teamwork\, today more than 2\,000\,000 Venezuelans have experienced El Sistema\, which has produced 400 nucleos and given rise to more than 170 orchestras\, and in addition to symphonic ensembles\, has choral\, jazz and has spurred a renaissance in Venezuelan folk-traditional music. \nToday\, El Sistema inspired programs have spread to more than 60 countries worldwide\, including Canada.  While the musical results produced by these programs are impressive and inspiring\, the central purpose of El Sistema is “Social Action Through Music.”  \nJoin us for a discussion of this revolutionary movement\, moderated by Eric Booth and Tricia Tunstall\, publishers of the worldwide newsletter of El Sistema\, “The Ensemble” and a panel of leaders from international El Sistema programs. \n“Music has to be recognized as an . . . agent of social development in the highest sense\, because it transmits the highest values – solidarity\, harmony\, mutual compassion. And it has the ability to unite an entire community and to express sublime feelings.”\n– José Antonio Abreu
URL:https://promiseofmusic.com/event/el-sistema-at-50-the-movement-that-started-it-all/
LOCATION:The Creative School Chrysalis\, 43 Gerrard St E\, Toronto\, ON\, M5G 2A7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Forum
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://promiseofmusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/El-Sistema-at-50.jpg
GEO:43.6593;-79.3799
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=The Creative School Chrysalis 43 Gerrard St E Toronto ON M5G 2A7 Canada;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=43 Gerrard St E:geo:-79.3799,43.6593
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251008T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251008T120000
DTSTAMP:20260813T022008
CREATED:20250817T205105Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250826T212349Z
UID:10000075-1759917600-1759924800@promiseofmusic.com
SUMMARY:Wednesday Film Screening: The Landfill Harmonic
DESCRIPTION:This award-winning 2015 documentary tells the story of the Recycled Orchestra of Cateura\, one of the world’s most remarkable and inspiring musical ensembles.  In a deeply impoverished town of 2\,500 on the edge of a massive landfill near the Paraguayan capital\, Asunción\, children have been learning to play violins\, cellos\, horns\, and drums\, all “recycled” from garbage retrieved from the dump.  Under the leadership of visionary teacher and founder\, Favio Chavez\, and with the help of local craftsman\, Nicholás “Cola” Gómez\, the Recycled Orchestra was born. \nIn a town where 1\,500 tons of waste are dumped every day\, children grow up with a bleak vision shaped by the rubbish that surrounds them. Or\, they did until the Recycled Orchestra came into their lives. It’s a music education program where each instrument is as unique as the child that learns to play it\, and a new spirit of pride\, accomplishment and possibilities is born every day. \nThe Recycled Orchestra has gone on to international acclaim\, performing with Stevie Wonder and Metallica. They will soon be the subject of a new musical by Gloria Estefan\, Basura. \nWith introductory remarks by Recycled Orchestra founder\, Favio Chavez. \n100% Positive reviews on Rotten Tomatoes \n“…an inspiring tale…”\n– The New York Times \n“Every once in a while\, a documentary film comes along that lifts the spirits of all who experience it. These stories have a universality that draws diverse people together and helps tear down the many artificially constructed walls that separate them. Landfill Harmonic is one of those magical movies. It is guaranteed to bring tears of joy to your eyes.”\n– Spirituality and Practice
URL:https://promiseofmusic.com/event/wednesday-film-screening-the-landfill-harmonic/
LOCATION:Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema\, 506 Bloor St W\, Toronto\, ON\, M5S 1Y3\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Film Screening
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://promiseofmusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Orquesta-en-Vya-Renda.png
GEO:43.6655516;-79.4104688
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Hot Docs Ted Rogers Cinema 506 Bloor St W Toronto ON M5S 1Y3 Canada;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=506 Bloor St W:geo:-79.4104688,43.6655516
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251008T104500
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251008T120000
DTSTAMP:20260813T022008
CREATED:20250817T205105Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250917T123851Z
UID:10000055-1759920300-1759924800@promiseofmusic.com
SUMMARY:Dr. Gabor Maté in Conversation: Trauma\, Childhood and Musical Pathways to Healing
DESCRIPTION:A captivating\, and deeply insightful conversation\, recorded exclusively for The Promise of Music\, exploring the profound connections between trauma\, childhood development and emotional healing and music. \nDr. Maté is joined in conversation by Brian Levine of The Glenn Gould Foundation.
URL:https://promiseofmusic.com/event/dr-gabor-mate-in-conversation-trauma-childhood-and-musical-pathways-to-healing/
LOCATION:The Creative School Chrysalis\, 43 Gerrard St E\, Toronto\, ON\, M5G 2A7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Forum
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://promiseofmusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Dr-Gabor-Mate-icw.png
GEO:43.6593;-79.3799
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=The Creative School Chrysalis 43 Gerrard St E Toronto ON M5G 2A7 Canada;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=43 Gerrard St E:geo:-79.3799,43.6593
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251008T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251008T120000
DTSTAMP:20260813T022008
CREATED:20250817T205105Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250917T124132Z
UID:10000068-1759921200-1759924800@promiseofmusic.com
SUMMARY:Strategic Granting in Music Education: MusiCounts Insights & Process
DESCRIPTION:MusiCounts is Canada’s music education charity\, having directed over $18 million in instruments and resources to thousands of underserved schools and community music programs across Canada. Join MusiCounts as they offer a focused overview of their granting model as well as data-driven insights on the state of music education in Canada. These insights not only inform key trends in music education across the country\, but also offer a foundation to inform broader educational and cultural policy conversations as they pertain to the state of music education.
URL:https://promiseofmusic.com/event/strategic-granting-in-music-education-musicounts-insights-process/
LOCATION:TMU Pod 250\, 350 Victoria Street\, Toronto\, ON\, M5B 2K3\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Forum
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://promiseofmusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Strategic-Granting-in-Music-Education.jpg
GEO:43.6593;-79.3799
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=TMU Pod 250 350 Victoria Street Toronto ON M5B 2K3 Canada;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=350 Victoria Street:geo:-79.3799,43.6593
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251008T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251008T140000
DTSTAMP:20260813T022008
CREATED:20250817T205105Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250823T140754Z
UID:10000064-1759928400-1759932000@promiseofmusic.com
SUMMARY:Rooted in Movement: Art\, Equity\, and Community
DESCRIPTION:In this powerful keynote\, internationally acclaimed dancer\, choreographer\, and arts advocate Lil Buck shares how Memphis Jookin’ – a street dance style born in the neighbourhoods of his home town – became both his personal path to possibility and a platform for youth empowerment. With its signature glide\, bounce and elaborate footwork\, Jookin’ launched Lil Buck from local streets to global stages. Reflecting on his own journey and the work of the Lil Buck Foundation\, he explores how culturally rooted art forms can foster resilience\, unlock talent\, and expand opportunities for young people\, especially in underserved communities. A Wall Street Journal Innovator of the Year and subject of Netflix’s MOVE and the documentary Lil Buck: Real Swan\, he invites us to reimagine the role of community-based art in shaping brighter\, bolder futures.
URL:https://promiseofmusic.com/event/rooted-in-movement-art-equity-and-community/
LOCATION:The Creative School Chrysalis\, 43 Gerrard St E\, Toronto\, ON\, M5G 2A7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Forum
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://promiseofmusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/IMG_4124.jpg
GEO:43.6593;-79.3799
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=The Creative School Chrysalis 43 Gerrard St E Toronto ON M5G 2A7 Canada;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=43 Gerrard St E:geo:-79.3799,43.6593
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251008T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251008T141500
DTSTAMP:20260813T022008
CREATED:20250817T205105Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251006T141011Z
UID:10000066-1759928400-1759932900@promiseofmusic.com
SUMMARY:SIMM Panel: Essential Skills for Musicians Facilitating Social and Community Music Projects
DESCRIPTION:This session focuses on the specific skills\, training and personal qualities required of musicians who facilitate participatory music projects
URL:https://promiseofmusic.com/event/simm-panel-essential-skills-for-musicians-facilitating-social-and-community-music-projects/
LOCATION:TMU Pod 250\, 350 Victoria Street\, Toronto\, ON\, M5B 2K3\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Forum
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://promiseofmusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/SIMM-Panel-Essential-Skills.jpg
GEO:43.6593;-79.3799
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=TMU Pod 250 350 Victoria Street Toronto ON M5B 2K3 Canada;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=350 Victoria Street:geo:-79.3799,43.6593
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251008T141500
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251008T153000
DTSTAMP:20260813T022008
CREATED:20250817T205105Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250924T193301Z
UID:10000065-1759932900-1759937400@promiseofmusic.com
SUMMARY:Roundtable: Building Bridges to a Better Future
DESCRIPTION:When young people grow up facing adversity\, whether through economic deprivation\, violence\, displacement\, or multigenerational trauma\, feelings of hopelessness\, disengagement\, and hostility can become internalized responses to their outward circumstances. Through self-destructive or even criminal behaviour\, too often\, young lives can be wasted or tragically cut short. \nAgainst such overwhelming\, soul-destroying odds\, how can something as ephemeral as music make a difference? And yet\, as our speakers have witnessed firsthand\, music can inspire and catalyze an astonishing metamorphosis. It begins by showing young people that they are not alone. It affirms their potential to learn\, to create and to achieve. And it nourishes an environment for personal growth\, self-discovery and contributing to something greater than themselves. \nThe external realities of these young people may not immediately change\, but through music\, many develop inner strength\, a sense of community\, and spiritual and intellectual resources that help them rise above their circumstances and empower them to find a better way forward.
URL:https://promiseofmusic.com/event/roundtable-building-bridges-to-a-better-future/
LOCATION:The Creative School Chrysalis\, 43 Gerrard St E\, Toronto\, ON\, M5G 2A7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Forum
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://promiseofmusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Roundtable-Building-Bridges.jpg
GEO:43.6593;-79.3799
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=The Creative School Chrysalis 43 Gerrard St E Toronto ON M5G 2A7 Canada;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=43 Gerrard St E:geo:-79.3799,43.6593
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251008T143000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251008T153000
DTSTAMP:20260813T022008
CREATED:20250817T205105Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251005T175125Z
UID:10000083-1759933800-1759937400@promiseofmusic.com
SUMMARY:Changing the Tune: Rethinking School Music Programs to Meet Student Interests and Needs
DESCRIPTION:Across Canada\, music educators are reshaping their music programs to better reflect the needs\, interests\, and identities of their students. This session brings together panelists who are moving beyond traditional models to build inclusive\, culturally responsive programs that integrate Indigenous music\, steel pan\, hip hop\, music technology\, and more. Panelists will reflect on the process of challenging established norms; from assessing student needs and collaborating with community artists\, to navigating risks\, barriers\, and curriculum alignment. This conversation aims to demystify the process of transforming music programs and to imagine what’s possible when we center students in the design and delivery of their music education.
URL:https://promiseofmusic.com/event/changing-the-tune-rethinking-school-music-programs-to-meet-student-interests-and-needs/
LOCATION:TMU Pod 250\, 350 Victoria Street\, Toronto\, ON\, M5B 2K3\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Forum
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://promiseofmusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Changing-the-Tune-Rethinking-School-Music-Programs-to-Meet-Student-Interests-and-Needs-scaled.jpg
GEO:43.6593;-79.3799
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=TMU Pod 250 350 Victoria Street Toronto ON M5B 2K3 Canada;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=350 Victoria Street:geo:-79.3799,43.6593
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251008T150000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251008T160000
DTSTAMP:20260813T022008
CREATED:20250817T205105Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250912T125047Z
UID:10000078-1759935600-1759939200@promiseofmusic.com
SUMMARY:Firdaus Orchestra: Symphonic Traditions From the East and West
DESCRIPTION:Experience the trailblazing Firdaus Orchestra\, an all-female ensemble whose name means “paradise” in Arabic and whose spirit embodies empowerment and unity. Comprised of exceptional musicians from nearly 30 countries\, Firdaus share their talents while inspiring young women to unlock their potential\, express themselves freely and pursue careers in music without limits. \nFounded for Expo 2020 Dubai by Her Excellency\, Reem Al Hashimy\, Minister of State for International Cooperation of the United Arab Emirates\, the Firdaus Orchestra has grown into powerful symbol of cultural exchange and gender inclusion Performing as a 50-member ensemble that blends Western symphonic traditions with traditional Arabic instruments and musical heritage offering an exceptional repertoire that spans continents and centuries. It is the vanguard of a UAE-wide music education initiative.
URL:https://promiseofmusic.com/event/firdaus-orchestra-2/
LOCATION:Nanji Family Foundation Auditorium at the Aga Khan Museum\, 77 Wynford Drive\, Toronto\, ON\, M3C 1K1\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Public Performance
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://promiseofmusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Copy-of-PA_L0170-scaled.jpeg
GEO:43.7252855;-79.3320349
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Nanji Family Foundation Auditorium at the Aga Khan Museum 77 Wynford Drive Toronto ON M3C 1K1 Canada;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=77 Wynford Drive:geo:-79.3320349,43.7252855
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251008T154500
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251008T170000
DTSTAMP:20260813T022008
CREATED:20250817T205105Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250917T124256Z
UID:10000072-1759938300-1759942800@promiseofmusic.com
SUMMARY:The Value and Power of Music Therapy
DESCRIPTION:Music therapy harnesses the power of music in a therapeutic relationship guided by a trained professional to address a wide range of conditions in order to improve wellness and quality of life. Dating back to the early 20th century – and gaining formal recognition in U.S. universities by the 1940s – music therapy is now a well-established and respected discipline. \nWhen applied to children\, music has been shown to support language acquisition and rehabilitation\, motor skills development\, emotional expression\, social engagement\, cognitive development and recovery from trauma. Music therapy is used extensively in paediatric\, rehabilitation\, mental health\, medical and chronic care settings. \nAccording to the Mayo Clinic: \n“Professional music therapists are trained in a variety of subjects including music theory\, anatomy and counselling. They use music purposefully within a therapeutic environment to support development\, health and well-being. Music therapists work with everyone from newborn babies to people receiving end-of-life care. \nMusic therapy is often available in hospitals\, schools\, correctional facilities\, assisted living and long-term care facilities\, and the broader community. Some sessions are one-on-one. Others might be a small group.” \nBased in Calgary\, Jennifer Buchanan is one of Canada’s most respected and successful music therapists. Based on her vast experience\, and compassionate use of music as a healing tool\, Jennifer will explain why\, at this time of unprecedented increase in mental health challenges amongst children and youth\, music is a powerful tool for promoting wellness. \n\nJennifer will be joined in this session by members of Music for Every Child\, a unique youth-led\, registered charitable organization run by students ages 8 – 23. Music For Every Child initiates and funds music therapy programming for children with special needs in inner city schools. Through the universal language of music\, Music for Every Child helps students develop important skills including socio-emotional\, communication\, and behavioural regulation. Music for Every Child is currently an official Educational Partner of the Toronto District School Board\, collaborating with educators and professionals across Toronto\, Mississauga\, Ottawa\, and Oakville. 
URL:https://promiseofmusic.com/event/the-value-and-power-of-music-therapy/
LOCATION:TMU Pod 250\, 350 Victoria Street\, Toronto\, ON\, M5B 2K3\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Forum
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://promiseofmusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/The-Value-and-Power-of-Music.png
GEO:43.6593;-79.3799
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=TMU Pod 250 350 Victoria Street Toronto ON M5B 2K3 Canada;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=350 Victoria Street:geo:-79.3799,43.6593
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251008T154500
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251008T170000
DTSTAMP:20260813T022008
CREATED:20250817T205127Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250826T155928Z
UID:10000063-1759938300-1759942800@promiseofmusic.com
SUMMARY:New Advances in Applied Music Neuroscience - from Mechanisms to Interventions
DESCRIPTION:In recent decades\, research into the effects of music on the brain\, cognition\, and neurological development – from early childhood through end of life – has surged. The massive body of work has evolved alongside science’s growing understanding of neuroplasticity (the brain’s remarkable ability to continuously reorganize itself by forming new neural connections in response to stimuli\, experience and activity. \nWhile huge gains in understanding have been made\, vast frontiers remain unexplored in uncovering exactly how listening to\, learning and making music change the brain. Already\, we are gaining insights into the uses of sound\, rhythm and musical structures for therapies to treat diverse conditions including stroke recovery\, autism\, Parkinson’s disease\, epilepsy\, traumatic brain injury\, dementia\, multiple sclerosis and mood disorders. \nThis expanding field raises compelling questions for parents\, educators\, and clinicians about the role of music in early development\, and how it may build the neurological foundations for lifelong health\, cognitive resilience and emotional well-being. It also points to the potential of music-based targeted interventions that can be applied throughout life in response to specific health challenges.
URL:https://promiseofmusic.com/event/new-advances-in-applied-music-neuroscience-from-mechanisms-to-interventions/
LOCATION:The Creative School Chrysalis\, 43 Gerrard St E\, Toronto\, ON\, M5G 2A7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Forum
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://promiseofmusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/New-Advances-in-Applied-Music-scaled.jpeg
GEO:43.6593;-79.3799
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=The Creative School Chrysalis 43 Gerrard St E Toronto ON M5G 2A7 Canada;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=43 Gerrard St E:geo:-79.3799,43.6593
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251008T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251008T210000
DTSTAMP:20260813T022008
CREATED:20250817T205127Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250829T165518Z
UID:10000073-1759951800-1759957200@promiseofmusic.com
SUMMARY:Sistema New Brunswick Children’s Orchestra & Sistema Toronto: Dan Brown’s Wild Symphony
DESCRIPTION:With narration by Viggo Mortensen\nFrom bestselling Author Dan Brown (The Da Vinci Code) comes a magical\, immersive concert experience that brings his whimsical children’s book Wild Symphony to life through vibrant visuals\, celebrity narration\, and an unforgettable live performance. \nThe show will feature the 145 amazing musicians of the Sistema New Brunswick Children’s Orchestra and Sistema Toronto for a one-of-a-kind event with two remarkable Canadian ensembles with inspiring stories of their own. \nWild Symphony is more than just a concert. It is a sonic journey through a magical animal kingdom\, complete with dazzling projections\, interactive moments\, and Dan Brown’s spirited score. Whether you’re a child discovering orchestral music for the first time or a lifelong music lover\, this performance promises wonder\, laughter\, and inspiration for audiences of all ages. \nSupported by Robert and Ellen Eisenberg
URL:https://promiseofmusic.com/event/the-wild-symphony-dan-browns-musical-menagerie-with-narration-by-viggo-mortensen/
LOCATION:Koerner Hall\, 273 Bloor St W\, Toronto\, ON\, M5S 1V6\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Public Performance
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://promiseofmusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/uc-67-scaled.jpeg
GEO:43.6679988;-79.3965985
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Koerner Hall 273 Bloor St W Toronto ON M5S 1V6 Canada;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=273 Bloor St W:geo:-79.3965985,43.6679988
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251008T200000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251008T210000
DTSTAMP:20260813T022008
CREATED:20250817T205127Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250921T192403Z
UID:10000071-1759953600-1759957200@promiseofmusic.com
SUMMARY:The Sinfonia por el Peru Youth Choir\, with VOCA Chorus of Toronto
DESCRIPTION:Created by the world-renowned Peruvian tenor Juan Diego Flórez\, Sinfonia por el Perú (“Symphony for Peru) is committed to catalyzing social transformation through group music teaching. Modeled after Venezuela’s El Sistema\, the program provides musical training for young people as a means of building life skills\, artistic ability and the values of good citizenship in 17 teaching centres across 10 regions of Peru. Sinfonía por el Perú has achieved remarkable results\, touring Europe to great acclaim in 2024. \nThe Sinfonía por el Perú Youth Choir has quickly risen to international prominence\, making their Canadian debut after their first place win in the 2024 Summa Cum Laude Competition in Vienna. Their sparkling ensemble\, vibrant Latin rhythms and harmonic mastery will captivate Toronto audiences.\n \nThe VOCA Chorus of Toronto is honoured to share the stage with the Sinfonía por el Perú Youth Choir to perform several remarkable works by renowned Cree composers Andrew Balfour and Sherryl Sewepagaham. VOCA is a dynamic\, auditioned ensemble which performs a broad range of repertoire in collaboration with superb guest artists. \nPerformances\, including community concerts\, frequently feature premieres by Canadian composers\, along with arrangements by VOCA’s artistic director Jenny Crober. Other members of their artistic staff include collaborative pianist Dakota Scott-Digout and several professional leads. Concert highlights include the 2018 Canadian premiere of Ola Gjeilo’s major choral work Dreamweaver\, the 2022 world premiere of Andrew Balfour’s stunning Anang (A Star)\, and their 2023 Roy Thomson Hall debut.
URL:https://promiseofmusic.com/event/the-sinfonia-por-el-peru-youth-choir-with-voca-chorus-toronto/
LOCATION:The Creative School Chrysalis\, 43 Gerrard St E\, Toronto\, ON\, M5G 2A7\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Public Performance
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://promiseofmusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Sinfonia-por-el-Peru.png
GEO:43.6593;-79.3799
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=The Creative School Chrysalis 43 Gerrard St E Toronto ON M5G 2A7 Canada;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=43 Gerrard St E:geo:-79.3799,43.6593
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Toronto:20251008T200000
DTEND;TZID=America/Toronto:20251008T210000
DTSTAMP:20260813T022008
CREATED:20250817T205127Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250825T183802Z
UID:10000028-1759953600-1759957200@promiseofmusic.com
SUMMARY:Lara Somos Vocal Ensemble: Music Beyond Barriers (Venezuela)
DESCRIPTION:With this special Canadian premiere performance by the world-renowned Lara Somos Ensemble\, we pay tribute to the 50th anniversary of El Sistema\, the revolutionary music education program that has changed the lives of children and youth across the planet. \nThis extraordinary vocal-instrumental ensemble was trained in El Sistema’s Special Education Program\, which empowers young musicians with a wide range of hearing\, visual and cognitive differences. The super-virtuosity of Lara Somos’s close harmony vocalists and multi-instrumentalists breaks barriers with every note\, proving that that music knows no limits. \nHaving performed on global stages with such luminaries as the Sir Simon Rattle\, Andrea Bocelli\, Juan Diego Flórez\, Plácido Domingo and Itzhak Perlman\, Lara Somos now brings their boundary-defying artistry to Canada for the very first time. \nDon’t miss this rare and moving opportunity to witness the transformative power of music through a performance that radiates joy\, unity and excellence.
URL:https://promiseofmusic.com/event/lara-somos-vocal-ensemble-music-beyond-barriers-venezuela/
LOCATION:Nanji Family Foundation Auditorium at the Aga Khan Museum\, 77 Wynford Drive\, Toronto\, ON\, M3C 1K1\, Canada
CATEGORIES:Public Performance
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://promiseofmusic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/uc-69-scaled.jpeg
ORGANIZER;CN="Michael Berec":MAILTO:michaelberec@glenngould.ca
GEO:43.7252855;-79.3320349
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=Nanji Family Foundation Auditorium at the Aga Khan Museum 77 Wynford Drive Toronto ON M3C 1K1 Canada;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=77 Wynford Drive:geo:-79.3320349,43.7252855
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR