Toronto, August 24, 2023 – Today, Save the Children officially announced Max Keys, a remarkable nine-year-old pianist and vocalist from Toronto, as an Ambassador for the child rights organization. Keys’ relationship with Save the Children began following the escalation of the conflict in Ukraine in early 2022 when he hosted Instagram concerts in support of the organization’s response to the crisis, raising $10,000 for the children of Ukraine. Since, Max has brought his total to more than $20,000 with support for the Türkiye and Syria earthquake response.
“Max’s passion and talent for music has also given him a sense of purpose. He is a champion for children’s rights and is committed to helping children affected by war and crises and his efforts are already supporting critical life-saving programs in Ukraine, Türkiye and Syria,” said Sarah Matte, Save the Children’s Chief Development Officer. “It’s always inspiring to see children taking action and using their energies to support causes that are meaningful to them. We are so proud to have Max join the Save the Children movement.”
“I want to use my passion for playing the piano and singing to support other children. I noticed that a lot of kids look up to me, so I wanted to start fundraising,” said Max Keys. “I really love playing for big crowds and reaching my fundraising goals for Save the Children. If I help even one kid, I’ve succeeded.”
About Max Keys:
Max is known around Toronto for his engaging street performances in places like the Distillery District where he draws huge crowds, as well as for playing the iconic organ at Toronto Maple Leafs’ games. Max began playing the piano when he was five years old after being home sick for a few days and having run out of activities to do. His mom asked if he was interested in learning song and they started with ‘Fur Elise’. Within two hours Max had mastered the first part of the Beethoven song and was hooked on the keys, eager to learn more and try out different tunes. In addition to learning songs from YouTube, Max picks songs he hears on the radio—from Bruno Mars to Katy Perry, from Coldplay to Louis Armstrong. Max also composes his own songs on the piano and records them—coming up with his own lyrics and melody. To see Max talk about becoming a Save the Children Ambassador, click here.
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Save the Children believes every child deserves a future. In Canada and around the world, we give children a healthy start in life, the opportunity to learn and protection from harm. We do whatever it takes for children – every day and in times of crisis – transforming their lives and the future we share.