The High Notes Performance Group brings together people of all abilities. They use chimes and percussion to create charming melodies. High Notes is just one part of the Adult Friendship Circle which serves those living with physical, mental and cognitive special needs.
Friendship Circle Unites People Through Music
The High Notes Performance Group brings together people of all abilities. They use chimes and percussion to create charming melodies. High Notes is just one part of the Adult Friendship Circle which serves those living with physical, mental and cognitive special needs.
Musical director Lori Stahl explains, “High Notes is an amazing program. We started it in 2010 to give people a chance to be successful.”
From an eight-year-old pianist to a devoted grandmother, members find understanding at the Shul Center in Bayside. TODAY’S TMJ4’s Carole Meekins said that watching Notes can make you feel the pride, see the intensity and witness their joy.
Program director Roberta Stein explains, “Adults here have all different abilities. We have people here who don’t have language, but through music they can express themselves.”
Stahl agrees. “It’s just very rewarding to know we are making people happy.”
Rabbi Shmaya Shmotkin enjoys seeing family members and volunteers support the group. “It’s rewarding to know they are impacting so many lives. Their blind acceptance of one another with all their challenges is something all of us can learn from.”
To view the NBC report click here.
humbled
The incredible unconditional acceptance that Rabbi Shmaya talks about has to be seen to be fully asppreciated. An entire Chabad House community, (they call themselves The Shul) that has embraced the Friendship Circle adults as their own. The devotion of the Shluchim Rabbi Shmaya Shmotkin and Devorah Leah, Rabbi Avremi Schapiro and Shaindy is mirrored by the devotion shown by all the Basyside community. May they go from strength to strength in this and in all their endeavors, and keep growing in number.
its CHai notes
seen them in action its beautiful
http://www.youtube.com/watc…
Roberta Stein
It is an honor and blessing to be a part of this group!
Lori Stahl
Our Chai Notes participants are simply amazing! Its a wonderful opportunity to share my love of music.
Huge Fan
The Shmotkins are so incredible, seriously one of the most amazing families I’ve ever met! The work they do and the compassion they bring to their community can’t be beat! Along with the Schapiros, The Shul is one unbelievable community! Keep up all the GREAT work that you do :)
Devoted
As a parent of a participant in Chai notes, I’d like to thank Roberta and Lori for their vision, patience and unconditional love to make this program a reality