Adam Prudhomme
Editor
Napanee District Secondary School had 45 music students participate in the Limestone Music Celebration, held Feb. 21 at Queen’s University’s Grant Hall.
The local contingent joined fellow students from across the Limestone District School Board (LDSB) for an immersive day of musical education. Included in the day was instrument-specific workshops and clinics led by local professional musicians.
NDSS’ Lily Nicholls’ design was chosen as the logo for this year’s Limestone Music Celebration.
“Our very own Lily Nicholls had her logo design chosen to be used as the symbol for the event and printed on all of the event t-shirts,” said NDSS Music teacher Marcy Satnik. “Students spent the day learning with other musicians from across the Limestone District School Board area with seven other secondary schools involved. Many local musicians came to lead clinics and conduct the ensembles. It was a very positive day of learning for all involved.”
The evening culminated with a live performance by the student musicians, featuring upwards of 500 students from across Limestone.
“The Limestone Music Celebration focuses on a repertoire that reflects a wide array of voices. Works by Black composers, women, and Indigenous artists have been prioritized to ensure a rich, varied musical experience that resonates with all participants,” reads the LSDB website. “This initiative is a step towards decolonizing our music rooms and departments, making sure every student sees themselves in the music they learn and perform.”
Also performed was an original composition by Ernestown Secondary music teacher, Tim Stiff.
“His work, specifically crafted for a Massed Ensemble with inclusive and uplifting lyrics, is designed to celebrate the unity and diversity music brings to our lives,” says the LSDB website.
The unique event was organized by secondary school music teachers, Tourism Kingston, and the Limestone Learning Foundation, drawing inspiration from the memorable “Music Monday’ event in 2007.
A recording of this year’s performance can be seen at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=88DkTCQhBjM.