A burst of drums, ukuleles, and rock rhythms is set to meet runners on the streets of Victoria this October – and behind the music is a movement built on connection, healing, and hope.
The Friends of Music Society – or FOM – will return for a third straight year as an official charity partner of the Royal Victoria Marathon, set for Oct. 10-12.
With four performance groups stationed along the course and a growing team of participants called the “Rockin’ Racers,” the Victoria-based nonprofit is using its presence to do what it’s done best for 36 years: build community through music.
Founded in 1988, FOM offers accessible, inclusive music programs for people recovering from mental illness.
Their model, rooted in psycho-social rehabilitation, creates a space where participants can build friendships, develop skills, and find purpose – all without clinical barriers or stigma.
“People who struggle with mental health can often end up isolated,” said Vanessa MacDonald, a communications coordinator at FOM. “We offer a place with a positive focus – making music together is incredibly powerful. It boosts mood, it builds confidence, and it brings people back into community.”
Executive director Janet Pryer says the marathon has been a natural fit.
“As soon as we joined the charity pledge program, we also volunteered to perform on the course,” Pryer said. “Our bands energize runners and show the power of music in real time.”
That includes curated, upbeat set lists – think Chariots of Fire or Gonna Fly Now – performed by groups like the Ukulelians, Recovery Rock Band, and the Minds at Work R&B band.
Their presence has drawn smiles, dance moves, and plenty of mid-race thank-yous from runners pushing through the final kilometres.
“We couldn’t do it alone,” Pryer added, noting community support from places like Saint Frances Manor, which lends power and gear storage space along the route. “It’s a real team effort.”
This year, with the marathon and half-marathon sold out, FOM is encouraging people to sign up for the 8K or 5K events and join their fundraising team – or simply donate, cheer, or forgo their race shirt and redirect that cost to charity.
Because for those at FOM, every note played and dollar raised helps someone find their rhythm again.
