When CMC’s annual Field Day rolls around, the campus buzzes with the joyful sounds of music, laughter, and connection. For CMC piano faculty member Christian Bonvin, the event is more than a performance opportunity—it’s a deeply meaningful expression of community and shared purpose.
“Field Day is unique because it brings together the entire CMC community: students, teachers, audience members, and patrons,” says Christian. He participated in CMC’s weeklong Virtual Field Day in 2021, and this year marks his first time performing Field Day in person. He jumped in enthusiastically, becoming one of the first performers to sign up and raising nearly $700 in the first 24 hours after registering—and more than $2,000 in just two weeks.
Christian’s approach to fundraising was simple but powerful: he let his students know he was participating and invited them to support him or join in themselves. “I am lucky to have dedicated and generous students,” he says. “I thank them again for their donations.”
Two of those students, Sy and Roberta, are taking the stage this year. For Sy, the experience has been exciting and meaningful. “My mom and dad inspired me to start learning music because they are musicians,” Sy shares. “I felt excited because I was finally performing in a concert. I like the idea of being on the stage.”
Christian helped guide Sy through the preparation process—not just musically, but emotionally as well. “He was teaching me more about how to practice to perform,” says Sy. “He gave me tips for how to not be nervous and not worry.”
Sy not only embraced the challenge of performing, but also participated in fundraising. “After I performed at Field Day, I realized that I actually like performing,” Sy says. “I also fundraised for students at the school to be able to take music lessons. I was really happy because I was one of the top fundraisers last year! I want to be again this year.”
One of the most special memories from Field Day for Sy? “My whole family came to Field Day and we spent time together and saw other performances that were cool. We also ate tamales and got ice cream afterwards. It was a lot of fun.”
Christian believes that sense of connection is what makes Field Day such a vital part of CMC’s mission. Events like this are about more than music—they’re about the profoundly human experience of sharing something meaningful together. What advice does he have for others who are considering getting involved in Field Day? Keep it simple. Don’t overthink it—just come on down. “Like troubadours around a fire, or Bach playing for his children before bed. [Music is] a very human thing to do and share.”
Whether you’re performing, volunteering, donating, or cheering from the audience, Field Day is a celebration of music and community. Join us on June 1st and be a part of something special.