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A free music program focused on excellence
Sarah McLachlan School of Music is a music program offered free-of-charge to at-risk youth in Vancouver. Students in grades 4–12 receive high quality music instruction in both contemporary and classical traditions, in guitar, piano, percussion, voice, choir, songwriting and new media.
Guided by the vision of founding partner, international singer/songwriter, Sarah McLachlan, the school is a place where young people can explore their creative potential and develop positive peer connections, in addition to building a life-long love of music and enthusiasm for learning. No previous experience is required!
For aspiring musicians of our following catchment schools:
Junior Schools: Mount Pleasant, Florence Nightingale, Queen Alexandra
Senior Schools: Britannia, Gladstone, John Oliver, Templeton, Tupper, Van Tech, King George
Other: A limited number of spots is available to students attending schools outside the catchment area (a personal reference is required, see the referral criteria below).
We look to parents and community members to help ensure that our limited spaces are indeed going to students who wouldn’t otherwise have access to music education. It is our hope that applicants and their support networks will honour the intention of this free music programming, and only apply if in need.
Criteria for referral to the Sarah McLachlan School of Music:
Any student who does not attend one of our Catchment Schools, must provide a letter of reference written and signed by a principal, teacher, coach, youth worker or other professional (not related to the applicant). This letter must detail why the referee believes the applicant fits the following criteria.
- The child/youth has socio-economic barriers to accessing after-school music programs;
- The child/youth is vulnerable socially, academically or emotionally;
- The child/youth has a keenness and sense of commitment to studying music;
- The child has lack of supervision or care;
- The child/youth does not require the support of a one-to-one support worker and is capable of functioning in a group setting without one.
- The child/youth is in Grade 3 to Grade 11 at the time of application (spring) and attends one of our catchment schools:
A commitment deposit of $25 is required at the beginning of the program year, to be refunded upon completion of your/your child’s music studies.