Musicians across Canada celebrated Canada Music Week from Nov. 17 to 23 – including several local music students.
A group of local piano teachers believe that sharing current Canadian music with their students is inspiring and important.
The committee of teachers consists of Tanis Cowan, Laura Gray, Anne Grobbo, Marg Livermore, and April Martin, Pauline Horst, Heidi Martin and Susan Foster.
In early October nearly 200 entries of piano solos, ensembles and compositions were received.
The festival took place at the Palmerston Evangelical Missionary Church on Nov. 22.
This year Canadian composer and teacher, Joanne Bender from Waterloo, and pianist, harpist and teacher Sharon Johnston from Goderich attended to adjudicate.
In addition to performing, students could also compose a piece, create a poster featuring a Canadian composer, and design a cover for the programs.
Students were supported by the community with scholarships.
The following generous donors make these scholarships possible: Conestogo Agri Systems, Beryl Martin, The Piano Shop, Neville Leake Tuning and Repair, April Martin Music Studio, Town of Minto, Anne Grobbo Eastern Star, Palmerston Lions Club, Pauline Horst Music Studio, Hanover/Walkerton Branch of Ontario Registered Music Teachers’ Association, Lorraine Ballard, Nancy Stevens, Debbie Wanless, Dale Connell, and Fordwich Seniors Club.
Canada Music week was established in 1960 by the Canadian Federation of Music Teachers’ Association, and celebrated the third week of November, in honour of St. Cecilia, the patron saint of music.
Students, teachers, and their families gather for events across Canada, to learn and celebrate all aspects of Canadian music.
Music Festivals encourage young people to develop a love and understanding of the arts, and foster the values of self-discipline, teamwork and excellence.
For more information on the Canada Music Week Festival and other local festivals, contact Laura Gray at 519-338-5891.
