May 25, 2005

Composing music of acceptance…. one note at a time
Peel board students learn how to compose songs to effect change, promote tolerance

Peel District School Board students experienced a unique learning opportunity this spring as they joined forces with Toronto-based professional singer/songwriter Gregg Lawless. The songwriting program, known as Literacy and Values through Music, is designed to help students improve their literacy skills while raising awareness of the need for tolerance and acceptance of those who are different. The curriculum focuses on the seven identified "isms" (racism, ageism, ableism, sexism, faith as an ism, heterosexism and classism).

As part of the program, grade 5 classes from 10 Peel schools were selected to work with Lawless to compose and perform original songs based on one of the "isms".

The following Peel schools are participating in this program:

Castlebridge Public School
Corsair Public School
Dixie Public School
Dunrankin Drive Public School
Homestead Public School

Huntington Ridge Public School

James Bolton Public School

Kindree Public School

Neil C. Matheson Public School

Queen Street Public School

Lawless visited the schools to conduct songwriting workshops throughout the months of January to May. To supplement the songwriting portion of the curriculum, students studied their chosen "ism" in class through literature, reading, writing, oral communication, drama, visual art, technology, social studies and music.

"The schools and the 275 students involved are very excited about the Literacy and Values through Music program," says Mary Ann Fratia, instructional co-ordinator of arts, health and physical education. "Using music as another form of literacy to explore important concepts of acceptance is being embraced by all schools and children involved."

The Literacy & Values through Music program culminates in a gala evening performance with Lawless and his five-piece band accompanying each group of students as they perform their original songs. The performances will take place at the Living Arts Centre, Hammerson Hall on June 1, 2005 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available directly from participating schools and by calling 905-890-1010, ext. 2524.

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Media contact: Mary Ann Fratia, instructional co-ordinator, arts, health and physical education, 905-890-1010, ext. 2524

Reference: Laura Patel, Communications Officer, 905-890-1010, ext. 2652