MUSIC IN SCHOOLS
NOW HIRING MUSIC INSTRUCTORS
A Bachelor of Education Degree is not a requirement for teaching in many specialty subjects in school such as music, carpentry, automotive..etc, especially in remote and under-served communities where it is hard to attract and retain individuals to instruct. Relevant teaching experience and expertise is necessary, and many musicians in our province have the capabilities to deliver this in our schools.
Beginning in 2019 in Stanley Mission, we began our Pilot Project to have a Full-Time Music Teacher between both the Elementary School and High School funded through the school division.
The program has proven to be so successful that schools in La Ronge, Air Ronge, Sucker River and Hall Lake have followed suit! In March 2021 they invested in instruments, and we now have a Full-Time Music Teacher between all 4 schools. It is amazing to see this program in 5 schools, and be able to employ Saskatchewan musicians to teach full-time. Thus far Erik Mehlsen, Tristen Durocher, LJ Kimbley, Nigel Bell, Eliza Doyle, Kacy Lee Anderson and Micah Erenberg have all taught and/or are teaching currently in the program. All teachers have been offered Trauma & Cultural Sensitivity Training (TACT) and are provided with the CAMP Curriculum Resource Kit.
We continue to develop the framework to have this available to any school that wants to experience the benefits of music instruction: better attendance, increased motivation & self-esteem, development of fine motor skills, higher math and literacy scores, stronger community, strong inter-generational connections and a career in the music industry.
CURRENT INSTRUCTORS
supported by the Lac La Ronge Indian Band
GRAHAM TILSLEY
Senator Myles Venne School La Ronge
A session musician and teacher for more than 14 years, and a songwriter since high school, Graham has had many valuable experiences. With a strong ear, a background in jazz theory and many years on the road, he is prepared to deliver a number of different skill sets.
Chief Moses Ratt School
Sucker River
Riley is a multi-instrumentalist who has grown up in and a deep love for Northern Saskatchewan. His goal is to provide the children of the North with an outlet for their creativity and emotions, as music is an incredible tool for this purpose. Whether it's piano, guitar, drums, or singing, he does his best to support his students on their individual musical journeys.
RILEY BURR
PETER ABONYI
Keethanow Elementary School Stanley Mission
A guitarist and bassist with 24 years of experience, blending gypsy-inspired folk, world, jazz, blues, and rock. Based in Saskatoon, he has collaborated with many artists and performed at festivals like Ness Creek, Doylefest and Northern Lights Bluegrass. With a passion for music and teaching, he brings extensive expertise to his students.
BRONWYN BURR
Bells Point Elementary
La Ronge
Bronwyn Burr is a guitarist and vocalist originally from La Ronge, Saskatchewan. With background in songwriting and being personally familiar with growing up in Northern Saskatchewan, they are excited to bring music to children who otherwise may not have the opportunity to hone their talents!