The influence of the arts at Wilbraham & Monson Academy has been reaching new heights as music is being promoted to benefit the school community, as well as communities across oceans.
Emily Dromgold '17 will host the annual Charity Piano Concert April 14 at 7 p.m. in the Alumni Memorial Chapel to support the Home of Hope organization to benefit orphanages in Rwanda.
The event will include musical performances from WMA students of all grade levels, comprised of a wide variety of genres. Following the production will be a raffle, from which all profits will benefit Home of Hope. These earnings will provide clothing, food and other basic necessities to the children living in the orphanages.
"Last year we raised a little over $800 and this year our goal is $1,000," said Emily, who has been essential to the concert's success for the past two years. "The students performing will be happy to support something that's making a difference."
Emily has been working diligently with professor Carl Hobert of Boston University, who visits orphanages in Rwanda each year. She attended one of the professor's workshops regarding the Rwandan Genocide during her sophomore year. She felt inspired to contribute to the cause and approached Mr. Hobert, who was more than willing to help.
"He was thrilled about the opportunity and came to perform, then spoke to the audience about his connection to the orphanages," Emily said.
Emily has devoted much of her time to preparing her peers for the performances and has shown the community that everyone has the ability to contribute.
"This is so much more than just a piano concert," she said, "but I think that is what makes it special."
By Erika Convery '19