A new enrichment program in Huron County will allow area youth to learn how to play a variety of musical instruments.
The Banding Together program is a six-week initiative for students in Grades 7 to 9. It will launch on May 15 and run every Thursday from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. in the Central Huron Secondary School Music Room until June 19.
“We are excited to offer this program to young people because studying music instills discipline, creative thinking, and collaboration in young people. It is important for youth to have these foundational skills because they apply to life," Coordinator and music education student Spencer TenHag said in a statement. “The experience students can gain through making music is valuable not just for life but also for employment.”
Students taking part in the program will be taught how to play brass, woodwinds, violin, cello, and percussion instruments.
Described as "intensive", the program is being led by TenHag, who is a bachelor of music education student at Western University, Brock University bachelor of child and youth studies student Savannah Rutledge, and CHSS music teacher Aaron Neeb.
“It is important for young people to have creative outlets,” said Rutledge, who is also the program coordinator. “It is incredibly valuable for young people to cultivate meaningful relationships with each other prior to and during high school. Our hope is that we can help build these positive relationships through creating music.”
The deadline to sign up for the program is May 9. Those interested can register at huronhonourband@gmail.com. The cost of the program is $60.