Celebrating Music Monday with Students, Stars, Astronauts

Music Monday, an annual event celebrating music education, is being recognized across the province today, May 6.

Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Ramona Jennex joined students at New Minas Elementary School, who sang songs about space and participated in science activities.

This year's Music Monday theme, Let's Fill the Skies with Music, allows students, teachers and community members to celebrate the integration of music and science in their lives.

"Music Monday is a joyful, fun and engaging way to celebrate education in music with students," said Ms. Jennex. "This year's theme is an innovative way to teach children self-expression and creativity while introducing them to the science of space. I'm very pleased to see these two topics coming together to make for a memorable educational experience."

Ms. Jennex took part in some of the school's Music Monday activities, including signing the official Music Monday song that was co-written by Canadian Space Agency Astronaut Commander Chris Hadfield and Ed Robertson of the Barenaked Ladies. The song is called, Is Somebody Singing, and was commissioned by CBCMusic.ca and The Coalition for Music Education.

"Music is an important part of my life," said Elliot Cederberg, a Grade 4 student. "I love to sing, I do it all the time even when I am playing basketball. Music helps me relax and concentrate, and it cheers me up when I'm feeling down."

After celebrating with Ms. Jennex, students will watch a webcast from the International Space Station at 1 p.m., which includes a live concert by Cmdr. Hadfield.

"Music Monday has become a wonderful opportunity to recognize, celebrate and take pride in the rich and diverse music found within our country," said New Minas Elementary principal Eric Trahan. "Music has always been an important part of our history and culture, and learning through song keeps the students interested."

More information on Music Monday can be found at www.musicmonday.ca .