SINGING FOR THE BOYS AND GIRLS.
Amanda Rheaume will be performing and selling her CD Acoustic Christmas to help benefit music programs at the Boys and Girls Club.
Photo by Kristy Wallace
For
Amanda Rheaume, music and arts are crucial for a child’s self-confidence.
That’s why the Wellington West singer/songwriter has
recorded the city Acoustic Christmas
where proceeds from CD and concert sales will go to the Boys and Girls Club’s
music program.
“For kids, music is freeing, and I think when you get them
interested in music, it’s a passion,” she said. “They learn, they get better
and its confidence building. It’s also just a different kind of activity to get
involved in.”
Last year, Rheaume recorded the CD Acoustic Christmas and sold 5,000 copies at $5 each through area
venues.
This year, she’s decided to sell the CD again but also
perform the music in concert at The Rainbow Bistro on Dec. 8.
Copies of the CD will be there for $5 and a portion of
ticket sales will go to the Boys and Girls Club’s music program.
Jerrett DeFazio, director of programs with the organization,
said it currently has a music program but he would like to see it expanded.
“We have some staff and volunteers who teach children music
lessons and we have talent shows throughout the year,” he said. “In general we
have about 50 to 80 children in the music program and we would like to double
that.”
Along with continuing to teach children musical instruments,
DeFazio said the organization hopes that money raised will help purchase
digital software to help teach children the behind-the-scenes aspect of music
and production.
Rheaume said the time of year also helps bring people
together for a concert.
“There’s such good vibes around the holiday season and
Christmas,” she said. “I’m excited to do it live.”
Rheaume said her long-term hopes for the project are to
encourage children who are interested in music – and, encourage those who might
feel like they want to give up on music.
She added that she hopes proceeds from the CD and concert will
go to help the music room at the Boys and Girls Club, but hopes people will
enjoy listening to the music.
“I’m just trying to get people out and to come hear the
music,” she said.
DeFazio added that the Boys and Girls Club is thrilled to be
partnering with Rheaume.
“We’re very excited about expanding our music programs, and
it’s just a great opportunity and a win-win.”