Music Education Sparks Change for Rural Students in Manitoba

New national data emphasizes the critical role of music education in rural Canadian schools, revealing that cutting such programs could have significant human costs. A survey conducted by MusiCounts, Canada’s music education charity, indicates that 86% of Canadians believe music education should be provided equitably across all schools. Despite this support, many educational institutions are facing funding challenges that force them to do more with less.

In rural Manitoba, access to music programs, such as band or choir, is often limited. However, an inspiring example comes from the Albright School, located in the Oak Bluff Hutterite Colony near Morris. This fall, the school introduced a music program that has already begun to transform the educational experience for its 34 students.

Instruments Bring Joy to Students

At Albright, students are now learning to play instruments for the first time, thanks to a generous contribution from MusiCounts. The school was selected as one of 85 under-resourced schools to receive a portion of MusiCounts’ record $1.1 million investment. This funding allowed students to use new guitars and ukuleles, providing opportunities for those who previously lacked access to instruments.

“Last year we had a guitar program, but only kids with a guitar at home could participate,” said teacher Jessica Maendel. She expressed relief that now, “nobody was sidelined.” The enthusiasm in the classroom is palpable, with students eager to learn and participate in music-making activities.

Music as a Vital Resource for Mental Health

The positive impact of music education extends beyond just learning to play an instrument. According to the MusiCounts-Harris Poll survey, 60% of Canadians believe that actively making music significantly enhances mental well-being, with 56% linking music education to improved mental health. This connection becomes increasingly important in rural communities where access to formal counselling services may be limited.

“Music classrooms are the beating heart of any school,” stated Kristy Fletcher, President of MusiCounts. She emphasized that music not only fosters connections among students but also equips them with essential tools to thrive both academically and personally.

As demand for music programs continues to rise, the survey highlights a concerning reality: MusiCounts can only support about 20% of the schools that apply for funding. Approximately 20% of applicants report having no annual funding for music programs, underscoring the precarious situation faced by many rural and northern schools in Manitoba.

“Students in big cities may take band class for granted,” Maendel noted. “For us, having instruments at all is life-changing.”

With Giving Tuesday approaching on December 2, 2023, MusiCounts is calling on Canadians to support music education where it is needed most. Those interested in contributing can visit musicounts.ca to learn more about the organization and how to make a donation.

The stories emerging from small schools like Albright serve as a reminder of the profound impact that music education can have on students’ lives, particularly in rural areas where resources are limited.