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

École New Era School in Manitoba has been awarded a grant of $12,000 from MusiCounts, Canada’s largest music education charity. This funding is set to enhance the school’s music program, allowing for the replacement of broken instruments and the expansion of its inventory. The initiative aims to create a more inclusive music curriculum that reflects the diverse backgrounds of its students.

The grant was provided through the MusiCounts Band Aid Program, which this year committed a record $1.1 million to support 85 schools across Canada. The investment marks the largest single-year funding in the charity’s history and was awarded in honour of Canadian music icon Loreena McKennitt, who hails from Manitoba.

Wing Chow, the school’s music teacher, emphasized the importance of this funding beyond just acquiring new instruments. “Music is literacy. It’s not just fun or extra,” she stated. Chow highlighted how music education fosters teamwork, confidence, creativity, and even supports mental well-being. “Too often, music is the first program to be cut when budgets are tight, and I want to challenge that mindset,” she added.

When Chow joined École New Era School in 2023, she encountered significant challenges within the music program. Many instruments were broken or unusable, and her annual budget was limited to $200. With the encouragement of former principal Jaime Lambaert, she initiated a revival of the program using basic instruments like recorders and ukuleles. Recognizing that this was insufficient, Chow pursued external funding, leading to the successful application for the MusiCounts grant.

The impact of the grant has already been transformative. With the funding, Chow purchased 28 tubano drums, providing a complete set for her class, in addition to new handbells, jingle bells, and castanets. Previously, students had used buckets sourced from local businesses. Chow remarked on the significance of drums in various cultures, stating, “In almost every culture, drumming has played a role in communication, celebration, and identity.”

She shared a particularly moving experience from a recent lesson with her Grade 1 class. “I showed them drums from around the world, and one student recognized a drum from his culture. He had never played it before, and his pride and excitement were palpable,” Chow recalled. This moment underscored the importance of access to instruments that resonate with the students’ backgrounds.

Additionally, drumming offers accessibility for students with special learning needs, who may find traditional stringed or barred instruments challenging. “Drumming is direct and intuitive,” Chow explained. “You play, you hear the sound, and you feel the joy. Every student can succeed.”

Beyond cultural inclusion and accessibility, the music program plays a crucial role in developing well-rounded learners. Chow noted, “Music helps children learn cooperation, social interaction, and discipline. It gives them a voice, a sense of belonging, and supports their emotional growth.”

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

This grant represents a significant investment in the educational and emotional development of the students at École New Era School, ensuring that music remains a vital part of their learning experience.