Petra Griffioen is a violinist and music education specialist. ‘All my working life as a professional musician, I have been trying to bridge the gap between the music I perform, and the audience that listens to it. I’ve been doing that for almost 30 years as a violinist with Amsterdam Sinfonietta, but also in educational projects such as Kleuter Sinfonietta, which we developed in collaboration with The Concertgebouw. It is wonderful to see what a magical effect music has on these still very young listeners. It is even more beautiful when you can help children discover what it is like to make music themselves. And even more beautiful than playing on your own is playing together. The importance of this for a child’s development is enormous. That is why, as a board member of the Music for Children Foundation, I want to dedicate myself wholeheartedly to making this possible for children in circumstances where music lessons cannot be taken for granted. So that these children too can discover the musician in themselves!

Marlijn Peuker holds degrees in Econometrics and Philosophy. She is also a violinist. During her studies, she played in several student orchestras and was treasurer of the Netherlands Student Orchestra and the Netherlands Student Chamber Orchestra. ‘When I started playing with the Ricciotti ensemble, I discovered what music can mean to people outside the concert hall. Making music is the language that people from all over the world can speak to each other. It is therefore nice when as many children as possible have the opportunity to express themselves with it. Music for Children contributes to that possibility and I am happy to help ensure a financially healthy future for this foundation!’

The definition of music is different for everyone, even if we use the same word for it. This definition depends on tastes and preferences. But that what music always does is connect people, move emotions and inspire others.
At six, my parents put me in music lessons and at eight, I had the privilege of choosing the drum kit. A collection of drums and cymbals that I have enjoyed playing ever since. I would like to get involved with Music for Children so that more children can make this choice. That they become inspired, feel connected and moved. So that even children who have so little still have the opportunity to get in touch with this world.