Brechin Elementary’s choir, seen here performing at NLPS’ retired teacher’s Christmas luncheon, will be part of the school district’s inaugural Choir Fest next week.
By Mandy Moraes, NLPS staff
Next week, dozens of NLPS elementary students will come together to share their love of singing at the district’s first Choir Fest.
Students from Brechin, Chase River, Ladysmith Primary, Forest Park, syuw̓én̓ct, and Gabriola elementary schools will perform at Brechin Elementary on Wednesday, June 10, from 10 to 11:30 a.m.
For many students, this will be their first chance to sing with peers from other schools.
The idea started with three choir directors at Brechin Elementary. As they talked about choir programs in the district, they realised there were few opportunities for students from different schools to hear one another perform. They decided to create an event that would bring those choirs together for a day of singing and sharing music.
When the organisers contacted other elementary schools, they received enthusiastic responses and began planning the first festival.
Even though not all schools have formal music programs, choirs give students valuable experiences that go beyond just singing.
“Being part of a choir teaches teamwork, discipline, practice, and dedication. We find so much joy in singing together and performing in the community as not only a fun activity but an act of service,” said Olga Poyner, literacy coordinator at Brechin Elementary. “Every voice is important, and every voice belongs.”
Being in a choir also helps students build confidence and feel proud as they perform for bigger audiences. Like a team, every member’s unique voice is important for success.
Music teachers worked together all year, sharing ideas, suggesting songs, lending equipment, and making sure the event would be a success.
Each choir has prepared two songs to perform at the festival, and all students have learned a group song they will sing together at the end.
Organisers said schools usually pick popular songs that students already know and enjoy, especially ones with positive messages. At the festival, students will sing familiar and uplifting songs like “Count on Me” by Bruno Mars, “Girl on Fire” by Alicia Keys, and “Try Everything” by Shakira.
To end the event, all the choirs will join together to sing Abba’s Thank You for the Music as a way to show their gratitude for the gift of song.
Organisers are already planning for the future and hope to welcome even more schools next time. They also hope the festival will encourage other schools to start their own choir programs.
“We hope this event inspires more students to find their voice,” Poyner said.