Assiginack Public School receives MusiCounts Grant to purchase instruments

Assiginack Public School in Manitowaning has received a $10,000 MusiCounts Band Aid Grant to purchase instruments for its instrumental music program.

Rainbow District School Board Chair Doreen Dewar and Director of Education Norm Blaseg, who endorsed the application for funding, commended the Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences for championing music education in schools through the MusiCounts Band Aid Grant program.

“A MusiCounts Band Aid Grant will ensure that the new music program at Assiginack Public School continues to evolve,” they wrote in their letter of support. “Thank you for helping young people experience the joy of music and realize their full potential.”

Ray Scott, Music Teacher at Assiginack Public School, spearheaded the launch of an instrumental music program for Grade 7 and 8 students in September 2012. Working with Ralph McIntosh, Arts Education Co-ordinator for Rainbow District School Board, they borrowed instruments from other schools in the Board to get the program started, supplemented by the addition of a few welcomed donations from the community. 

“The funding provided through MusiCounts will sustain our instrumental music program in years to come,” said Ray Scott. “The grant means a lot to our small school and will make a big difference for our band students.”

Learning in, about and through music is part of a well-rounded education that reinforces academic skills and nurtures life skills. Music education encourages creative and critical thinking, and fosters an overall appreciation of the arts. Music also improves self-esteem and confidence, and promotes the development of teamwork.

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Media Contact:

Nicole Charette, Senior Advisor

Corporate Communications and Strategic Planning

Rainbow District School Board, 705-674-3171 ext. 7217.