Orpheus Academy of Music Launches Theo’s Practice-a-Thon to Benefit the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation
Music Students Use Their Talents to Make a Difference
AUSTIN [Sept. 29, 2023]– Orpheus Academy of Music (Orpheus) announced today the launch of Theo’s Practice-a-Thon, an annual fundraising event to benefit the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation (NPCF), a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to funding research to find more effective treatments for pediatric cancer. The event is open to the public and anyone can participate in creating practice videos or donating to show their support. The event will run for the next six months, concluding with a celebration concert in March/Spring 2024. All proceeds from the event will go directly to the NPCF, helping support a network of more than 25 children’s hospitals throughout the country.
Theo’s Practice-a-Thon honors a former Orpheus student, Theo, who passed away from cancer at four years old. The fundraiser is set up similarly to a ‘walk-a-thon’ where students and teachers learn new musical pieces and seek sponsorship from family and friends. Videos of their progress are shared throughout the event, leading up to the final celebration concert. The concert will feature the pieces prepared by students specifically for this practice-a-thon.
“We are thrilled to launch Theo’s Practice-a-Thon,” said Dr. Klondike Steadman, co-founder and executive director at Orpheus Academy of Music. “This event is a great way for our students to use their musical talents to make a difference in the world. We are also grateful for the support of our sponsors and the community in helping us to raise money for this important cause.”
“Orpheus Academy of Music is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year and this is a great way to focus on giving back. Our desire is to continue to honor Theo and his family by ensuring we not only teach students how to hone their musical talents but also how to give back to those around them.”
Over the past two years, Orpheus students have collectively raised more than $20,000 to support children with cancer.
In addition to fundraising, Theo’s Practice-a-Thon presents students with the opportunity to share their musical talents and to learn from each other. The event will also feature a variety of prizes for the students who raise the most money, upload the most videos, and perform the most creative videos. Prizes are sponsored by Terra Toys, Strait Music, and Blue Starlite Drive-In.
Visit Orpheus Academy’s Theo’s Practice-a-Thon page to learn more or to register to participate.
About Orpheus Academy of Music
Orpheus Academy of Music is a private music school with locations in Austin and Cedar Park, Texas. The school offers piano, guitar, cello, violin, and voice lessons along with group musicianship classes and summer camp options. All ages and skill levels are welcome at Orpheus.
About the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation
The National Pediatric Cancer Foundation (NPCF) is a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to funding research to find more effective treatments for pediatric cancer. The foundation supports a network of more than 25 children’s hospitals throughout the country. The NPCF is committed to finding a cure for pediatric cancer so that no child has to suffer from this disease.