Education
May 7, 2007

The following statement was issued by the Honourable Joan Burke, Minister of Education. It was also read in the House of Assembly:

Music Monday � Celebrating Music

At 2:30 this afternoon, Newfoundland time, 1,400 schools throughout Canada will be united in song. Today is Music Monday � an annual event that celebrates music. In this province, 68 schools will join their counterparts throughout the country to play the same piece of music at the same time.

We all know the value of music in the curriculum. There is an important link between school music programs, communities and the cultural vitality of Newfoundland and Labrador. Most of us were brought up with the sounds of traditional music in our homes. Our communities foster musical talent. This explains why so many of our young people display such an interest in, and talent for, music.

Music education is alive and well in our schools. Budget 2007 allocated $2.8 million as part of the $10 million Cultural Connections strategy. Over the past several years, this has allowed the department to hire 23 music teachers, chiefly aimed at the K-6 level. We have supported the ArtsWork conference, which is starting in Corner Brook this Saturday. Money was also provided for the Artists in Schools Program which will connect music, drama and visual artists with students. For example, we partnered with the Labrador School Board this year to support the George Zukerman Ensemble. This group, which included local musicians, toured the majority of schools in Labrador.

Through Cultural Connections, we have also introduced a music equipment program. School districts can access funding on a cost-shared basis to purchase or repair instruments and other equipment.

We have a new music curriculum for K-6 students. The music curriculum for intermediate grades is under development. New curriculum at all levels will have increased emphasis on Newfoundland and Labrador cultural content. We have also established a travel allowance program to support student groups so they can perform at venues and events.

These are all wonderful initiatives. They are a clear indication of the importance this government places not only on music education, but on the music of Newfoundland and Labrador. It�s something we are all proud of, that we hold close to our hearts. We will continue to promote it in our schools, so students will have a better sense of place and greater confidence to carry them proudly into the future.

2007 05 07                                                   2:00 p.m.

 


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