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

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

The grant was allocated through the MusiCounts Band Aid Program, named in honor of Canadian Music Hall of Fame inductee Loreena McKennitt, who hails from Manitoba. This year marks a significant milestone for MusiCounts, as they are investing $1.1 million into 85 schools across Canada, representing the largest single-year funding in the charity’s history.

Transforming Music Education

According to Wing Chow, the music teacher at École New Era School, the grant will allow for a substantial improvement in the school’s music offerings. Chow emphasizes that music education is vital, stating, “Music is literacy. It’s not just fun or extra. Just like math, language arts, or social studies, music is essential. It builds teamwork, confidence, creativity, and even supports mental well-being.”

When Chow joined the school in 2023, she discovered a struggling music program. Many instruments were broken or unusable, and her annual budget was limited to $200. With the support of the former principal Jaime Lambaert, Chow initiated a revival of the program using recorders and ukuleles, but recognized the need for more comprehensive support, which led to the successful MusiCounts application.

The grant has already made a significant impact. Chow purchased 28 tubano drums, a complete class set, along with new handbells, jingle bells, and castanets, replacing the makeshift instruments that students had previously used, such as buckets from local businesses.

Fostering Cultural Connection and Inclusion

Drumming is particularly significant for both cultural and educational reasons, according to Chow. “In almost every culture, drumming has played a role in communication, celebration, and identity,” she explained. Many students at École New Era School come from newcomer or immigrant families, making the ability to connect with instruments from their own cultures a powerful experience.

Chow recalls a poignant moment during a lesson with her Grade 1 class when a student identified a drum as part of his culture. “Seeing his pride and excitement made me realize how much more our students need access to instruments that reflect who they are,” she said.

Moreover, drumming provides accessibility for students with special learning needs, who might struggle with traditional stringed or barred instruments. “It’s direct and intuitive,” noted Chow. “You play, you hear the sound, and you feel the joy. Every student can succeed.”

Beyond cultural inclusion, Chow highlighted the broader benefits of music education. “Music helps children learn co-operation, social interaction, and discipline. It gives them a voice, a sense of belonging, and supports their emotional growth,” she stated.

Chow expressed her gratitude towards MusiCounts for their investment in the power of music education. “Their generosity has given our students opportunities they might never have had,” she said. “It’s not just about instruments — it’s about shaping confidence, inclusion, and joy in the classroom. MusiCounts is helping us build the future.”