Clinton Township Charity to Host Musical 'Petting Zoo' for Kids

A Clinton Township nonprofit will redefine a favorite childhood attraction Saturday by substituting musical instruments for the furry, four-legged creatures typically associated with the "petting zoo."

In celebration of Michigan Mentoring Month, Charity Music is hosting an "Instrument Petting Zoo" to give local children an opportunity to touch, feel and play string, wind, brass and percussion instruments.

The Jan. 26 event is free and open to children ages 5 to 12. However, guests are asked to RSVP ahead of time to 586-596-8296.

"Music can be so inspirational to a child,” said Roger Fachini, President/CEO of Charity Music, in a statement. “Learning to play an instrument builds confidence, camaraderie and math skills that stay with a student for a lifetime. Our ‘Zoo’ gives kids a chance to learn more about the instruments available to them and get advice on which instrument may be the best fit for him/her."

The petting zoo will run 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 26 at Charity Music's volunteer center at 40736 Hayes Rd. in Clinton Township. Refreshments will be served.

Charity Music's mission is to help cultivate the next generation of musicians by providing instruments, on loan, to homeless, at-risk, or disadvantaged youth wishing to tap into their hidden musical talents. The nonprofit also offers assistance to students attending schools where music education programs are not available.

For more information on how you can support Charity Music's efforts, visit http://charitymusic.org/charitymusicinc.html.