The VSO and the Coalition for Music Education announce 2008 Principals of Music Award recipient

The VSO and the Coalition for Music Education announce

2008 Principals of Music Award recipient

Vancouver BC ’Äì The Coalition for Music Education believes that a well-rounded education includes access to music from Kindergarten to Grade 12. For schools to offer music ’Äì through choirs, bands and strings programs ’Äì requires the support of school boards and administrators.

Not surprisingly, the attitudes of the school Principal can make all the difference. Without flexibility in time-tabling and a commitment to having a music specialist on staff, music classes will not thrive.

Since 2003, The Vancouver Symphony Orchestra has partnered with the Coalition for Music Education in BC to honour a school principal whose support and advocacy for music in his/her school help to create an environment in which music can flourish.

This year’Äôs recipient is Mr. Kevin Vine, Principal of Salt Spring Island Middle School.

Mr. Vine has recently retired after many years of dedicated service. A testament to his commitment to music is that nearly half the student population of Salt Spring Middle School is in the music program. It is an honour to acknowledge Mr. Vine’Äôs commitment to music in our schools.

The award will be presented by Maestro Bramwell Tovey at the November 8^th Musically Speaking concert at the Orpheum. The award winner receives a plaque honouring their achievement and the music program at the school receives $500 from Tom Lee Music and a Tempus Drum specially made for the occasion.

Please visit the Coalition for Music Education at: www.weallneedmusic.ca