École New Era School Secures $12,000 Grant for Music Program

École New Era School in Manitoba has been awarded a significant $12,000 grant from MusiCounts, Canada’s largest music education charity. This funding aims to enhance the school’s music program by replacing broken instruments, expanding inventory, and fostering an inclusive environment that reflects the diverse backgrounds of the student body.

Investment in Music Education

The grant was allocated through the MusiCounts Band Aid Program, which this year is investing a record $1.1 million into 85 schools across Canada. This initiative is particularly notable as it marks the largest single-year investment in the charity’s history. The award also honors Loreena McKennitt, a celebrated Canadian musician and inductee into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, who hails from Manitoba.

According to Wing Chow, the music teacher at École New Era School, the grant will be transformative. “We are not just replacing instruments; we are enriching our students’ educational experience,” she explained. Chow emphasized that music is a vital component of learning, much like math or language arts. It promotes teamwork, creativity, and emotional well-being.

Chow joined the school in 2023 and found the music program in disrepair, with many instruments unusable and an annual budget of only $200. With the backing of the former principal, Jaime Lambaert, she began revitalizing the program using basic instruments like recorders and ukuleles, but recognized the need for external funding to make a more significant impact.

A New Era for Music at École New Era School

The grant has already led to substantial improvements in the music classroom. With the funds, Chow purchased 28 tubano drums, handbells, jingle bells, and castanets, replacing makeshift instruments that students previously used, such as buckets donated by local businesses.

Chow noted that drumming holds particular significance for both educational and cultural reasons. “In almost every culture, drumming serves a role in communication, celebration, and identity,” she stated. For many students, especially those from immigrant families, playing an instrument that reflects their cultural heritage creates a powerful connection.

She recalled a poignant moment with a Grade 1 student who recognized a drum from his culture during a lesson. “He had never played it before, and seeing his pride and excitement highlighted the importance of having access to instruments that resonate with our students’ identities,” Chow shared.

Beyond cultural relevance, drumming also offers accessibility for students with special learning needs, who may find traditional stringed or barred instruments challenging. “Drums are direct and intuitive,” said Chow. “Every student can succeed.”

Chow believes the music program plays a crucial role in developing well-rounded learners. It teaches cooperation, social interaction, and discipline, while giving students a voice and supporting their emotional growth.

Expressing her gratitude, Chow stated, “MusiCounts’ generosity has opened doors for our students that they might never have had. It’s not just about instruments; it’s about nurturing confidence, inclusion, and joy in our classroom.”

The support from MusiCounts is helping to shape a brighter future for the music program at École New Era School, paving the way for students to thrive both musically and personally.