Music Matters Events

We will, we will, rock you! AWB Music Program Band members included in FREE concerts at Señor Pancho’s Prospect

Reappearing on Sunday, October 16

  • What: FREE Concert, Music Matters
  • Who: Performers from Abilities Without Boundaries Music Program Band
  • When: Sunday, October 16, 1:30 — 3:30
  • Where: Señor Pancho’s Prospect
  • Why: Come out and support our individuals! Enjoy a yummy meal with some tasty tunes!

Thank you to all who attended our July and August summer concerts at Señor Panchos restaurant in Prospect. A variety of student musicians performed, including our own AWB Music Program Band. Our individuals work hard in their music therapy classes. Performing in public offers them a chance to showcase their talents, contribute to their community, and have fun! We were pleased for the turnout. Make sure to join us Sunday, October 16.

Abilities Without Boundaries Music Program Band performers at Senor Pancho's Prospect

AWB’s Music Program Band participants have performed for AWB board members, donors and spouses. Prior to COVID, they performed at a Summer of Rock concert and at a holiday concert, both at Señor Pancho’s of Prospect. Performing in public helps people better understand our individuals’ capabilities and creativity. Shown here are band members participating in July’s concert.

Concerts are Free. However donations in any amount are most appreciated. Fundraising from our band’s appearances supports purchase of instruments, lessons for the individuals, transportation and the support staff required by some of the performers. AWB is also looking for donations of used musical instruments. John Ingrassia, a Cheshire music teacher and rock-and-roll performer is helping create a music program at the nonprofit. This event will also showcase some of his other student musicians.

As part of its programming, AWB is building a music therapy program for individuals the organization serves. Amanda Barnes, AWB executive director, said, “In our music room hangs a banner reading, ‘When words fail, music speaks.’ We see over and again how music reaches even our non-verbal individuals.” She said public performances like Sunday’s are an important part of the music therapy program, “Performing in public boosts confidence for our individuals and helps the public better understand their capabilities. We hope this in turn leads to more work opportunities for our individuals. Self-advocacy is another of our important program offerings.”

Student musicians performing at the August summer concert. Our three individuals are on the far left in the bright shirts!

Coverage of our August Performance in Republican American Newspaper:
(Note: scroll over image then click arrow at the bottom left of the article page to see page 2)

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Reprinted with permission.