Astrid Hepner, President and CEO

Music makes a difference! It brings people together, creates friendships, helps build communities, as well as investing young people with confidence, drive, and passion - enriching life itself.

This past year, the Hamilton Music Collective (HMC) has made the maintenance of these values its utmost priority. An investment was made in a new registration system, thus increasing our ability to reach our ever-growing AIFEC community and to stay connected with our students.

An exciting new partnership was established with the City of Hamilton’s Recreation Department, which allows us to reach even more children and youth in our community in order to provide them with creative opportunities.

Thanks to the incredible effort of our team of instructors and HMC/ AIFEC staff, close to 300 elementary students are currently enrolled in our free weekly instrumental lessons. 

In a time where so many children are experiencing a prolonged state of physical isolation from their peers, teachers, and community networks, the impact of music provides an outlet to relieve stress and anxiety, plus serves as a source of substantial joy and empowerment.

This past September, HMC moved back into our newly expanded and renovated home, The Gasworks, which will become a true cultural hub – a centralized location that will make education, exploration, and entertainment accessible for its inner- city neighbours and anyone else who wishes to participate. None of what HMC does would be possible, were it not for the incredible financial support received from our broad base of donors and benefactors, to whom we are most grateful and appreciative.

Astrid Hepner,

President and CEO