About
Music has the power to change lives!
OrKidstra is an Ottawa-based charity that empowers kids ages 5-18 and builds community through the universal language of music. We do this by providing children from equity-deserving communities with free instruments and music lessons, which gives them the chance to learn essential life skills – such as teamwork, respect, empathy, and self-discipline – through playing and singing together.
Our Story
Founded in 2007, at the heart of OrKidstra is the beautiful combination of musicianship and citizenship. In its 18th season, OrKidstra’s programs now reach over 700 children and youth from over 62 linguistic and cultural backgrounds in equity-deserving Ottawa neighbourhoods.
“When young people work together in orchestras, they learn skills that are valuable to our society…Our future is a lot brighter thanks to OrKidstra and the talented young people they nurture.” – Alexander Shelley, OrKidstra Ambassador and Music Director of the National Arts Centre Orchestra
Want more information about OrKidstra? We’d love to hear from you!
Our Impact
OrKidstra helps kids reach for success through music now and in the future!
By remembering OrKidstra in your Will, you can help create a future where all children and youth have the opportunity to find their voice through music. Your thoughtful bequest will give future generations of children from equity-deserving Ottawa communities the opportunity to benefit from the many community skills inherent in music-making.
In the hands of a child, a clarinet or violin becomes a remarkable instrument of change, growth, and empowerment. OrKidstra helps kids become virtuoso adults!
OrKidstra Success Stats:
- 100% of OrKidstra graduates have completed high school gone on to post-secondary education.
- 93% of OrKidstra parents say their child is doing better in school*
- 94% of OrKidstra students feel they have improved their musical ability*
*2022-23 OrKidstra Student, Parent and Teacher Survey.
“OrKidstra teaches kids how to get along with one another…and it’s good for the brain, including reading skills, math skills, and so much more.” – Liz Cosgrove, OrKidstra Legacy Donor
