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

École New Era School in Manitoba has received a significant boost to its music program with a $12,000 grant from MusiCounts, Canada’s largest music education charity. The funding, awarded through the MusiCounts Band Aid Program, aims to replace broken instruments, expand the school’s musical inventory, and foster an inclusive music curriculum that reflects the diverse backgrounds of its students.

The grant is part of MusiCounts’ largest single-year investment, totaling $1.1 million allocated to 85 schools across Canada this year. This initiative honors Canadian Music Hall of Fame inductee Loreena McKennitt, a Manitoba native whose contributions to music continue to inspire future generations.

Wing Chow, the school’s music teacher, expressed enthusiasm about the impact of this funding. She noted that the grant will enable the school to not only replace worn-out instruments but also enhance the overall music education experience for students. “Music is literacy. It’s not just fun or extra,” Chow emphasized. “Just like math or social studies, music is essential. It builds teamwork, confidence, creativity, and even supports mental well-being.”

When Chow joined École New Era in 2023, she found the music program in dire straits. Many instruments were unusable, and her annual budget was a mere $200. With support from former principal Jaime Lambaert, she revived the program using basic instruments like recorders and ukuleles but recognized that more was needed. This realization prompted her to pursue external funding, culminating in a successful application to MusiCounts.

The grant has already begun to transform the music classroom. With the funding, Chow purchased 28 tubano drums, a full class set, along with new handbells, jingle bells, and castanets, replacing makeshift instruments previously used by students. Prior to this, students made do with buckets donated by local businesses.

Chow highlighted the cultural significance of drumming, stating, “In almost every culture, drumming has played a role in communication, celebration, and identity.” For many of her students, who come from immigrant families, playing drums that represent their cultural heritage provides a vital sense of connection and belonging. She recounted a poignant moment with a Grade 1 student who recognized a drum from his culture for the first time, showcasing the profound impact of accessible music education.

Drumming also serves as an effective means of engagement for students with special learning needs. Chow noted that it is “direct and intuitive,” allowing all students to experience success in music. “You play, you hear the sound, and you feel the joy,” she explained, reinforcing the inclusive nature of the program.

Beyond cultural inclusion, Chow believes that music education cultivates well-rounded learners. “Music helps children learn cooperation, social interaction, and discipline. It gives them a voice, a sense of belonging, and supports their emotional growth,” she said.

Chow expressed her gratitude to MusiCounts for their commitment to music education, stating, “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.”

The positive effects of this grant extend beyond mere materials; it fosters a nurturing environment where students can thrive both academically and personally through the power of music.