Yukon Schools Boost Music Programs with $45,000 Grant from MusiCounts

Three schools in Yukon, Canada, are set to enhance their music programs thanks to a combined funding of approximately $45,000 from the charity organization MusiCounts. The funding will benefit F.H. Collins Secondary School and Whistle Bend Elementary School in Whitehorse, as well as Johnson Elementary School in Watson Lake. This initiative aims to expand and sustain music education opportunities for students in the region.

The grant will provide much-needed resources, including musical instruments, repair tools, and other musical gear. According to Alexander James, a music teacher at F.H. Collins Secondary School, the funding will help acquire new instruments such as clarinets, flutes, saxophones, and baritones. These additions are crucial for supporting the school’s expanding band program.

At Whistle Bend Elementary School, music teacher Meg Henderson expressed her enthusiasm for the grant, stating it will allow her to purchase high-quality xylophones, djembe drums, headset microphones, and a new soundboard for students from kindergarten to Grade 7.

Kristy Fletcher, president of MusiCounts, explained that Johnson Elementary School is receiving support to introduce music programming for the first time. The school will acquire ukuleles and drums, providing students in Watson Lake with their first opportunity for structured music education. Fletcher emphasized, “Our goal is to make music education accessible, sustainable, and inclusive for young kids across the country.”

Upcoming Performances and Community Impact

Both F.H. Collins Secondary School and Whistle Bend Elementary School have scheduled musical performances for this winter. On December 15, 2023, students from F.H. Collins will present a production at the Yukon Arts Centre in Whitehorse. Henderson is also in the process of finalizing details for a musical inspired by a popular movie.

The grant will significantly ease the financial burden of instrument repairs for F.H. Collins Secondary School. James mentioned the recent expense of $2,000 just for shipping broken instruments for repairs. He noted that with the new funding, the school can invest in high-quality repair tools, allowing for more efficient on-site repairs instead of sending instruments south for servicing.

Both schools collaborate to operate a joint Grade 8 band as part of a non-profit initiative called the All-City Band. This program presents a series of live wind ensemble and jazz concerts throughout Whitehorse and surrounding communities. Earlier this spring, students showcased their talents at the Arts in the Park music festival held at LePage Park in Whitehorse.

The process of acquiring the necessary instruments and equipment involves submitting a list to MusiCounts, which sources the items through local businesses. Fletcher explained, “What happens is they work with a local distributor, and then we work to get their instruments to them as quickly as we can.” She acknowledged that logistical challenges can arise, especially in remote communities, but emphasized the importance of supporting local suppliers for repairs and instrument purchases.

MusiCounts aims not only to provide immediate benefits to these schools but also to foster a long-term commitment to music education in the Yukon. With the new resources, students will have better access to music programs that can enrich their educational experience and foster creativity in the community.