Sonia's Musikgarten Foundation

Research has found that learning music facilitates learning other subjects and enhances skills that children inevitably use in other areas. In particular, music education improves auditory precision and attentiveness and has clear links to improved reading skills in children.

By offering funded music education in low decile schools, the Foundation ultimately aims to contribute positively to children’s education through being exposed to music lessons in a positive, stimulating and fun environment.

At present, Sonia's Musikgarten Foundation Director personally sponsors music education for children whose families cannot afford it.

The Foundation is currently providing music education through Kahurangi School (decile 2) to:

*10 new entrants children and their teacher ($800 per child per year)

*Ukulele lessons to six children (aged 6 - 7 years) at a cost of $400 per child per year

*9 Kahurangi Scholarship children at a cost of between $1000 - $1400 per child per year (including materials)

The overall total cost this year has been $21,456, which has both been raised through fundraising activities and from Sonia's Musikgarten Foundation Director personally. In addition to providing music education, the Foundation has donated to Kahurangi School:

* 2 keyboards

* 2 keyboard stands

* 2 keyboard stools

* 1 CD player

* 1 hand drum

The Foundation plans to continue funding music education in Kahurangi School next year, and expanding through other low income schools in Wellington. BUT, we really need your help to support the provision of music education in schools that could not afford it otherwise!