It is so joyous to watch young musicians get up on stage and show the world that they love music and want to perform. And that’s what we got today at the Mustang Outreach Program fundraiser at the Roadside Bar and Grill in Duck.
The MOP works with kids to develop music and stage performance skills. Under the direction of Music Director Ruth Wyand, who is herself an amazing musician, and Assistant Music Director Amanda Williams—also quite accomplished—the kids learn how to play the instruments of a rock band, or to take on a solo gig.
COVID really dealt a blow to the program, but it’s coming back, and if today’s concert was any indication, it’s coming back strong.
There were three bands that took the stage representing three different ranges of experience. Was it the polished performance of seasoned musician? Of course not. But the kids constantly were on point with chords, rhythm and melody—which for a 10 or 11 year old is quite the accomplishment.
The music was a little more complex—and polished—for the older kids, but all of them sounded great.
It was a certainly an Outer Banks kind of a day. Just about everyone there was connected somehow with MOP—parents and family friends, a few alumni of the program.
And there has to be a big kudos to Roadside. It was a $5 donation to get in and that ticket included barbecue pork, beans and slaw.
The MOP is a 501c3 organization, and a significant portion of the funds they raise is applied to providing scholarships to kids whose families cannot afford to have them take lessons.
The unexpected is so much a part of what makes the Outer Banks special. Discover all the thing you never knew. A week or two in a Brindley Beach Vacations home is the perfect way to begin the journey.