The Hammer Band

Because postal code
DOES NOT determine
potential.

We believe that all children deserve to have the same opportunities to learn and build confidence. That’s why we provide music education to students from underserved communities who might otherwise never know the power that music education has to transform their lives.

Our students

Shawn

When Shawn first joined the program, he had no musical experience and was a beginner to the world of music.

Thanks to The Hammer Band and its gift of music, Shawn has become a well-rounded and confident student who is proud to play his instrument and perform at home, school and venues all over Toronto!

Shekinah

Shekinah was born in the Philippines and moved with her family to Canada in 2009. At first, when starting lessons at age five, she did not like the violin.

Now, she cannot imagine life without music. Since joining The Hammer Band a few years ago, she now plays both violin and viola. We are proud of you Shekinah!

Half as many children in poorer communities with lower parental education participate in music programs compared to wealthier communities¹.

The act of playing a musical instrument is mentally stimulating and can also strengthen your fingers, hands, arms, shoulders, neck, back, and abdominals².

1. People for Education, Arts Education, 2018
2. The Health Benefits of Playing a Musical Instrument, University of Alberta, 2021

You have the opportunity to provide The Hammer Band kids with the experience of a lifetime through the gift of music.

Donate now

With your continued support since 2007, more then...

10k

Students have taken
part in our program.

450

Concerts have been
performed.

600

Children participate
this school year.

Schools take part
in our program.

CHANGING TUNES | CHANGING LIVES

Enjoy our 2024 fundraiser filled with music, joy, and unforgettable moments!

NEWS

26
Sep
2025

Meet Ira Bernard Teich, new Board Member

16
Jul
2025

Our story featured on the Government of Canada website

12
Jun
2025

Meet Ian Werker, new Board Member

12
May
2025

Filming begins for “From Violence to Violins”

BEETHOVEN’S JOY

On January 15, 2017, students surprised shoppers at Yorkdale Mall with a performance of Ode to Joy.

TESTIMONIALS

From a Happy Family

This is so exciting!!!!!! I played the cello in middle school (gr6-8) so I was soooo THRILLED when [my child] showed interest in your program. He plays with “toy” instruments at home but we would never be able to give our kids this gift if not for your generosity of time, resources and heart. Thank Read More…

Thanks from a Parent

Thank you for the wonderful opportunity you have given my child to be a part of The Hammer Band program. It has been an enriching and enjoyable experience. My child has been learning under the guidance of Mr. Moshe. This program has greatly enhanced his confidence, discipline, and love for music. He looks forward to Read More…

Praise from a Parent

First off I’d like to extend my thanks to Mr. Inglis for his professionalism, patience and talent. With the help of this program, [my child] has not only learned how to play the violin but she has learned how to read music. We actually bought her her own violin for her Birthday this April. This Read More…