Seeing live music is a rite of passage for most young people and a new program will make this a reality for those with special needs in the city of Maribyrnong.
Bandmates Victoria is an initiative between Arts Access Victoria and Maribyrnong council. It matches young people with a disability and/or mental issues with a volunteer to see live music.
Alejandra Diaz, of Maidstone, has nominated herself as a Bandmates volunteer.
The graphic, visual, conceptual and installation artist said she found the program a great platform for inclusiveness.
“As an artist, I have an affinity to music and understand that sound can put you in another landscape of joy,” Ms Diaz said.
“Two years ago I took a friend suffering from multiple sclerosis to a club; she stayed for hours dancing even though she knew the pain she would have.”
Victoria Cini, 43 of Sunshine is a music lover who has been matched with Ms Diaz as “bandmates”.
Ms Cini, who is in a band called The Hackkets, said the program will fulfil a dream.
“I want to see The Darkness because they are one of my favourite bands. I’d like to see them at least once because they’re on my bucket-list.”
Anyone interested in being a part of the program can apply online at maribyrnong.vic.gov.au/bandmatesvic
