News Release


Ontario Schools Celebrate Music Monday

McGuinty Government Supporting Arts Education

May 5, 2008

Students in more than 700 Ontario schools will be united by music today.

Music plays an important role in the lives of many Canadians. By supporting arts education, the province is helping students become more motivated and self-confident while providing them with a well-rounded education.

Music Monday was created by the Coalition for Music Education in Canada. On the first Monday of May each year, students in music programs across Canada perform a concert.

Education Minister Kathleen Wynne and Culture Minister Aileen Carroll attended a concert at Emma King Public School in Barrie to celebrate Music Monday.

Quotes

"The outcomes of arts education – creativity, imagination, innovation and originality – are among the most important resources you need to be successful and prosperous in today's workforce," said Education Minister Kathleen Wynne. "I believe every student should have a significant experience in arts education."

"Music Monday is a great way to showcase the importance of arts education in our schools," said Culture Minister Aileen Carroll. "Arts education helps students develop their ability to listen and observe and to become more self-aware and self-confident."

"Music Monday celebrates the very tangible link between our schools and the cultural vitality of our communities," said Ingrid Whyte, Executive Director of the Coalition for Music Education in Canada. "The students who are engaged in music and the arts in Barrie's classrooms today are among the citizens that will nourish our cultural communities tomorrow."

Quick Facts

  • The Ontario government is investing $28 million in new funding this year to increase the number of elementary specialist teachers to deliver programs in the arts, music, literacy and numeracy and physical education.
  • Music Monday started in 2005.
  • Arts education can include: comprehensive arts, dance, dramatic arts, media arts, music and visual arts.
  • Many students in Ontario can enrol in an Arts and Culture Specialists High Skills Major.

Learn More

See what schools are participating in Music Monday.

Learn about the Ontario Arts Council.

See also: