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Sistema New Brunswick, an organization whose mission is “to promote the collective practice of music through symphony orchestras in order to inspire children and youth to achieve their full potential and to acquire values that favor their growth and have a positive impact on their lives and society, has chosen Tobique First Nation to bring their teachers and musical instruments to teach children from six to 10 years of age beginning in September.
On April 18, Sistema New Brunswick will bring members of the New Brunswick Youth Orchestra and various musical instruments in order to recruit and share success stories regarding the other sites where they have set up in New Brunswick. There is no cost for parents to have their children learn to read music and learn to play a musical instrument which would be a life-long learning experience. The organization requires the commitment of time to see success in the program.
There will be two sessions offered on April 18, one in the afternoon at 1:00 p.m. and a second one at 6:00 p.m. for parents of children who attend Andover Elementary. All community members are invited to either session. Tobique First Nation Chief and Council are urged to attend as well.
There have been several community leaders who met with Ken MacLeod, President and CEO of the New Brunswick Youth Orchestra and Don Matheson, Executive Director. At the present time, Sistema New Brunswick has centres in Richibucto, Saint John and Moncton. The programs are very successful. There are waiting lists for each Centre and support is in evidence by the attendance at their concerts.
Jeremy Rhodes, CEO of Elephant Thoughts and Tim Nicholas travelled to Moncton to met with MacLeod and Matheson and also visit the classrooms where children were being taught.
“Both Jeremy and I were impressed by the children,” said Tim Nicholas. “My thoughts were this: Here is an opportunity for our Tobique youth to learn to play and read music at no cost other than a commitment of time. I know that from recently attending the East Coast Music Awards in Halifax where our musicians were nominated, that Tobique has a rich history of music going back several generations,” he added.
“From the literature I read, it states that these types of programs “develop music skills, help to improve literacy and grades, help to gain confidence and self-esteem and build a solid foundation.” I know that there are many parents who support their children in sports but participation in Sistema New Brunswick offers children who cannot afford the costs of travel, an opportunity such as this program. Tobique could once again be proud of their youth,” said Nicholas.
SOURCE: The Victoria Star
