On May 21, fifty-two excited Music students
traveled to Toronto to participate in MusicFest Canada, the Canadian national
music festival. Nine instrumental and choral music groups performed at the
festival, under the direction of Mr Dave Stewart and Mr. Dan Craven, with
extremely successful results.
Grade 9/10 Jazz Band – Gold
Vocal Jazz – Silver
Senior Jazz Band – Gold
Concert Choir – Silver
Grade 9/10 Jazz Combo 1 – Gold
Interschool Jazz Combo 1 – Gold
Grade 10 Jazz Combo 2 – Gold
Interschool Jazz Combo 2 – Gold
In addition, the Senior Concert Band, under the direction of Dan Craven,
competed for the first time ever at the College Level. The students’
tenacity and hard work resulted in an exceptional performance, which was
recognized by the four adjudicators who awarded the group’s gold standing.
Twenty of the top students from across Canada were chosen to perform in
the Yamaha Canada All Star Jazz Band. Kwalikum Secondary School claimed the
highest representation, with Ben Randall (Bass Trombone), Phil Lam (Lead Alto
Saxophone) and Daniel Walsh (Lead Tenor Saxophone) being selected for membership
in this elite group.
A handful of the best students from the festival were selected to receive
scholarships for their outstanding individual performances. Daniel Walsh
received a $1000 scholarship to Humber College, Phil Lam received $500 to
attend the same, and Jon Challoner received a full scholarship to attend
the New West Jazz Clinic this summer.
The fact that this festival is attended by ten thousand students whose
bands have qualified in their regions across Canada highlights the quality
of the program that is offered at Kwalikum Secondary School; the students'
accomplishments are a testament to the dedication these young people have
for their craft.
