Arohanui Strings transforms lives through music by teaching ensemble playing for free. Charlotte and Margaret explained the organization's origins, starting in 2013 as a grassroots charity providing music education in Wellington. The program, led originally by Margaret Goldberg, serves 350 children aged 6-16.
The organization's mission is to provide transformational change through music education, working in seven communities in Lower Hutt and Wellington city, with weekly after-school sessions and in-school programs. They highlighted the success of these programs, which reach children who might not otherwise
have access to music education. They emphasised community integration, offering free afternoon tea from Kaibosh and a buddy model for peer learning. Despite funding challenges, including a $125,000 rejection from Creative New Zealand, the organization relies on government grants, gaming trusts,
fundraisers and community support. Success stories highlighted included Whitney, a talented violinist, and Amalia, a scholarship student transcribing Samoan waiata.
The organization provides a safe space for young people to engage in high-quality music education. The speakers emphasised the value of music education in teaching discipline and teamwork, like sports. The sessions are designed to be inclusive, with children learning at their own pace and
being inspired by more advanced students. The high quality of musicians and educators in Wellington was highlighted, which benefits their program.
Success Stories and Individual Growth
Whitney, a young violinist excels and teaches her peers. Whitney’s traditional music teacher tells how he has learned from her unconventional
approach to music. The buddy model allows younger children to learn from older students, fostering a sense of community and leadership.
Expanding Reach and Overcoming Barriers
The holiday programmes bring together children from different cities, fostering friendships and community connections.
Performing in the Community and Beyond
The organization has performed at Government House and plans to perform at the legislative chamber in Parliament. The organisation emphasizes the goal of making children feel seen and valued in their local settings.
Conclusion and Future Plans
The women expressed the importance of breaking down barriers to access and making music education accessible to all. They shared a final success story about a child who joined the program for the food but ended up loving music.
Tutoring Program Overview
The recruitment and compensation of tutors in their program, starting with high school volunteers who later become paid student tutors earn the living wage of $23.50. They also have tutors, often university students, and senior tutors who are professional musicians with degreesThe program aims to expand beyond string instruments but faces logistical and financial challenges, especially with expensive and hard-to-maintain wind instruments. They have made progress, with some wind instruments available and a good brass section in Wellington. The senior tutors are chosen based on their qualifications and experience, ensuring they can effectively lead classes. The program aims to foster a true spirit of teaching, where passion and dedication are crucial.