Kelty, Semitones Member

For Kelty, music is her lifeline. A significant force of nature driving her every day. While her mother Kathryn certainly admits “there is no way to predict how or why young children respond to music,” she at least knows it’s such a major part of her daughter’s life. As Kelty puts it, “if there was no music, I would die.”

She shares her love of music with her grandmother, who, as Kathryn puts it, a really crucial part of Kelty’s life.

“They have a special bond through music,” Kathryn said. “They love listening to music and singing together in the car and go out of their way to make time for that every week!

Kelty joined Braille Tones in 2018, just shy of her eighth birthday, as part of the Semitones program, the organization’s choir for kids aged eight to 16. Her grandmother saw the Braille Tones perform and thought it would be a wonderful opportunity for Kelty, who had already developed a passion for singing around this time.

Ever since then, Kelty has felt at home within the organization. Not only does it allow her to further fuel her passion for music, but it also gives her a lot of room to grow.

“Kelty feels part of a team,” Kathryn explains. “The experience has reinforced her love of music and has given her the opportunity to sing with confidence with the group. Her understanding of music rhythms and harmonies has grown through her time with Braille Tones.”

While Kathryn says it’s tough to determine any specific memories that Kelty fondly looks back on because the COVID-19 pandemic forced all rehearsals and performances online, she’s certain Kelty would mention all the personal connections she’s made since joining.

“Her key memories are about the wonderful leadership and the sense of community she feels when surrounded by other members, and allies of, the disabled community.”

Written by Chris Ranta