Santa Monica Students Fight Violence with Music

When the Brussels terror attacks forced the students in the Santa Monica High School Symphony Orchestra to cancel their European tour, the students found a way to combat violence through music.

Instead of performing in Paris and Amsterdam, they organized a benefit concert at Walt Disney Concert Hall on Sunday, June 12 for victims of conflict and violence worldwide. All proceeds from the concert will go to the International Committee of the Red Cross.

“I am proud of these determined students who are turning a very disappointing situation into a positive event that will raise awareness and funds for those affected by violence,” Joni Swenson, Samohi symphony orchestra director, said in a written response. “The Walt Disney Concert Hall is the perfect venue for our musicians to perform what they have prepared. I invite everyone to join us on June 12th to experience a wonderful and heartfelt performance.”

School district officials are encouraging the community to buy tickets quickly because they are expected to sell out.

“Although the students were heartbroken about the cancellation, they understood their disappointment was minor compared to the tragedy of the bombings, and were determined to create something positive from the unfortunate turn of events,” district officials said in a written statement.

Tickets can be purchased at Ticketmaster: http://bit.ly/1sIZRmX. Tickets are $10-$25 each.

Photo courtesy of the Santa Monica Unified School District