The Salvation Army in Barrhaven has launched a new free music program for children in the community. The program “Beginnings in Brass” began last October and is held Monday evenings from 7 to 8 pm.
The program teaches kids both music theory and how to play an instrument and no musical background is required to join. Each child is given a pCornet to use and take home to practice with.
The pCornet is made of plastic and is ideal for children as its lighter, tough in that it can withstand some bumps, ideal for all weather and still maintain a great sound quality.
The program which is funded through The Christmas Kettle Campaign in Barrhaven is taught by YP Band Coordinators Rob Gaus and Program Coordinator/Instructor Walter Prager.
“I come from a small community where there wasn’t much opportunity to learn music, but I did learn through The Salvation Army and I became part of the Divisional Youth Band. Teaching is now my way of giving back,” said Rob.
A brochure was handed out at last year’s Salvation Army Rally Day in Cresthaven Park in Barrhaven to see if there would be some interest in the program.
Five families responded that they would be interested in signing up their kids.
“The excitement of the young musicians has been persistent and it’s carried on into the tougher weeks when they started producing notes,” said Rob. “Music opens doors to expression, language building and creativity and is also an expression of the children’s faith and an opportunity to hear about God’s love.”
This March, the children will have their first opportunity to play during the Sunday worship service.
The Salvation Army has an extensive history with brass music and this program is helping the church reach out to families.
“It also gives kids an opportunity to be able to use music to give back to God with their gifts and it’s a different way to serve God in their everyday life,” he said.
