On divisional in-service morning of Monday February 4th , well over 100 young and vibrant musicians from Westwood Collegiate and Lincoln
Middle School united to share a passion for music making. Director of Bands
at Westwood, Mr. Greg Edwards, along with his exemplary team of Gr.11 and 12 concert band students, coordinated and graciously hosted instrument sectionals
and a full ensemble workshop for their neighboring feeder school. The Westwood
students both led the sectionals as well as sat within and amongst the Grade 8 Lincoln
band students. Magic was in the air as
the seniors inspired and motivated the juniors by playing musical examples and
offered suggestions on how to improve an array of musical aspects such as tone
quality, dynamics and articulation. The
power of young people to act as leaders and role models is a beautiful and
powerful teaching tool. We are extremely
fortunate in our world of music making to be able to collaborate learners in
this fashion, have the seniors try their hands at teaching and the juniors
leave inspired and moved by their older and more experienced peers. The Westwood Senior Jazz Band treated the
Lincoln musicians to an energetic performance of Stevie Wonder's - Superstition. Lincoln Director Mrs. Chrisp and some of her students were invited to sit in
with the Westwood Senior Jazz Band and had much fun playing along. The morning concluded with a full ensemble
rehearsal in the Westwood gymnasium that consisted of both the junior and
senior musicians rehearsing as one mass concert band. The ensemble sound was both inspirational and
exciting for all involved. Following a
pizza lunch the students departed and for certain were richer musicians and
people for having participated in this meaningful and creative endeavor.
Enjoy some photos that celebrate the day.
