Near North schools invited to MusicFest Canada

Near North District School Board
News Release

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From May 12-17, 10,000 young musicians from across Canada experienced the 36th annual MusicFest Canada at the National Arts Centre in Ottawa. The Near North District School Board is proud to announce that bands and choirs from five NNDSB schools attended the competition and were very successful. Invitations to the national event are only issued if a band or choir gains a standing of Gold or High Silver at an approved regional event. William Beatty Elementary, Silver Birches Senior Elementary, Widdifield Secondary, Chippewa Secondary and Northern Secondary schools were honoured with invitations.

In addition to competing, the students, teachers and other guests were entertained with performances by the Yamaha Symphonic Band from Japan, Humber College Faculty Band, National Concert Band, and the Yamaha All Star Band . Daily workshops, clinics and master classes were also offered to the participants. The week was dedicated to developing young musical talents and provided opportunities for the students and educators from across Canada to meet, demonstrate, and share their musical achievements and creativity.

NNDSB School Awards

William Beatty Jazz Band
Gold

Northern Secondary Senior Jazz Band
Silver

Northern Secondary Senior Concert Band
Silver

Northern Secondary Concert Choir
Silver

Widdifield Secondary Senior Concert Band
Silver

Widdifield Secondary Concert Choir
Silver

Chippewa Secondary Junior Concert Band
Silver

Chippewa Secondary Senior Concert Band
Silver

Silver Birches Concert Band
Bronze

To assist in the cost of this trip, the schools held various fundraisers. Music Teacher, William McArton, was willing to sacrifice a full beard and head of hair, when he challenged the William Beatty students to raise over $3,000 and in return he agreed to have his hair and beard shaved off. The students of all the schools are most thankful for the financial support received from service clubs, municipalities, private and business donors and the Near North District Board of Trustees.

Lynda Bertrand, Northern Secondary Music teacher said, “I am so proud of what these students have been able to accomplish since September. This national event allows young musicians, of all levels and ability, the chance to be the best in Canada.”

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