Arts Features:
District School Board Ontario North East
One-of-a-Kind Music Business Program Flourishes in Timmins
In 2016, District School Board Ontario North East partnered with Lake Shore Gold (Tahoe Resources Canada), TEMPO (Through Education Music Provides Opportunity) and Coalition Music of Toronto to deliver “The Music Business Experience” at Timmins High and Vocational School. Led by Music Teacher Barry Promane, students gain hands-on experience by working alongside industry professionals. Student workshops have been conducted by studio engineers, record label executives, Juno-nominated songwriters and entertainment lawyers.
As part of the course, students participate in a rock band. “Sonic Democracy,” comprises talented students ranging from Grades 9 to 12. The band includes 30 musicians and four technicians, with junior and senior members working together to develop their skills. In June 2017, Sonic Democracy released their first full length album to rave reviews from industry professionals.
Since its inception, Sonic Democracy has performed for thousands of people through many vibrant concerts. Although the band performs primarily at Timmins High, it has shared stages with professional acts, including Neverest and the Lowest of the Low. In June 2017, the band made the City of Timmins proud by performing at the eight-day music and fireworks spectacular, “Stars and Thunder”, which was headlined by country singer Keith Urban, and featured Canadian artists such as Simple Plan and Johnny Reid. Sonic Democracy returns to the festival in June 2018 for an encore performance, as the students will open for Virginia to Vegas and Marianas Trench.
District School Board Ontario North East is extremely proud of the program. Huge thanks to Tahoe Resources Canada, TEMPO and Coalition Music for the continued support.
For more information about Sonic Democracy visit their website.
For more information about “The Music Business Experience” program at Timmins High and Vocational School, please contact Barry Promane via email at barry.promane@dsb1.ca.
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