When Hungarian-born violinist Moshe Hammer arrived in Canada, he brought his musical talent with him – but his greatest contribution would go far beyond concert halls. Driven by a passion for helping others, Hammer founded The Hammer Band, a Toronto-based charity that teaches children in under-resourced communities how to play the violin. His goal: replace violence with violins and empower youth through music.
On This Page, You Will Find:
- How Moshe Hammer built a music program for Toronto youth
- The impact of The Hammer Band on students and schools
- Personal stories of growth and healing through music
- Hammer’s journey from Hungary to Canada
- Immigration’s role in strengthening Canada’s non-profit arts sector
A Musician’s Response to Violence
In the early 2000s, headlines about gun violence in Toronto deeply affected Moshe Hammer. After the particularly troubling summer of 2005, he felt called to act.
“I started to think about whether I could channel my passion for music into something that could help,” he recalls.
From that idea, The Hammer Band was born. Starting in a single North York school with just 20 violins, the program now operates in 42 schools and has reached over 8,000 students.
The lessons are free and taught by a team of instructors. But Hammer’s aim is broader than musical instruction. “We teach kids how to play music, but we also teach them life skills,” he explains. “The hope is that they will grow up and use those skills to contribute to a better society.”
Life Lessons Through Music
The Hammer Band helps students develop patience, listening skills, self-discipline and teamwork. It provides a safe space to express themselves and build confidence.
Sukhwinder Singh Buall, principal of Beaumonde Heights Junior Middle School, has seen the difference firsthand.
“The program improves their well-being, and their social and emotional health,” he says. “Moshe is inspiring, passionate, and open to working with students who are struggling.”
Hammer’s impact also extends beyond the classroom. One participant, Ui Chheng Quanh, first enrolled her sons in the program and later asked if she could learn too. Hammer gladly agreed.
“Moshe gave me this opportunity,” she says. “When I play, I feel happier.”
A Musical Journey Across Borders
Hammer fell in love with the violin at age six after seeing a klezmer musician at a wedding. Originally born in Hungary, his family immigrated to Israel when he was an infant.
He studied music there and later moved to Canada in his early twenties to join the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra. After a decade in Calgary, he eventually settled in Toronto, where he has lived ever since.
“My experience as a newcomer was warm and welcoming,” he says. “Canada is still the best country on this planet. The violin gave me the chance to live here, and now I can use it to give back.”
Pandemic Pivot and Future Goals
The COVID-19 pandemic presented new challenges, but also new opportunities. With the shift to virtual and hybrid lessons, The Hammer Band now reaches even more children.
Hammer hopes to expand further, bringing the joy of music to more students in Toronto and beyond.
“It’s just so rewarding to see the kids in the program grow—as musicians and as people—right before my eyes,” he says.
A Broader Picture: Immigration and the Arts
Toronto is home to Canada’s largest immigrant population. Nearly 47 percent of residents were born outside the country. Immigrants like Moshe Hammer play a vital role in the arts, education and non-profit sectors.
Across Canada:
- 47% of the non-profit workforce are immigrants
- 29% of independent artists, musicians and writers are immigrants
- Over 80,000 immigrants work in arts and culture-related professions
Stories like Hammer’s show how immigration strengthens Canada—not only economically, but also culturally and socially.
FAQ
Who is Moshe Hammer?
Moshe Hammer is a violinist and community leader who founded The Hammer Band, a Toronto charity that provides free violin lessons to children in underserved communities.
What is the goal of The Hammer Band?
The program teaches more than music. It helps children develop life skills like discipline, cooperation and emotional resilience while offering them a creative outlet.
How many students has The Hammer Band served?
Since its founding, The Hammer Band has reached over 8,000 students in 42 schools, with plans to grow even further through virtual and hybrid programs.
Where did Moshe Hammer come from?
He was born in Hungary, raised in Israel, and came to Canada in his twenties to join the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra. He later settled in Toronto.
Why is this story important to Canadian immigration?
It highlights how immigrants contribute to Canada’s social fabric. Hammer used his musical background to build a program that improves lives and builds stronger communities.
