Today, Monday, May 5, more than 200,000 Canadians joined forces in over 600 locations for Music Monday, a nationwide celebration organized by the Coalition for Music Education in Canada. This year’s highlight was a massive sing-along of Triumph’s anthem "Hold On," underscoring the urgent need for music education and the unifying strength of music at a time when our schools are facing drastic cuts to these vital programs.
At 12:30 p.m. (ET) participants coast to coast to coast harmonized in what became the world’s largest sing-along aimed at raising awareness for music education. The anthem was brought to life through a collaboration featuring Rik Emmett and over 250 talented children’s voices recorded at Metalworks Studio, showcasing the incredible talent of young performers united in song.
“Today’s incredible nationwide event reminds me about the vital role music has played in my own life. Music has allowed me to connect with many people in ways that transcend words,” says Triumph's Gil Moore.
“Music matters so much to people! It enriches our lives and our communities. It fosters creativity, collaboration, and emotional expression among students—qualities we desperately need in our schools. That’s why I got involved—I believe we must nurture the next generation of artists and leaders. I urge everyone to lend their voice to support music programming in our schools”.
The heart of the event was a signature gathering at Metalworks Studio in Mississauga, hosted by Moore and Stacey Sinclair, Executive Director of the Coalition for Music Education. This live-streamed event showcased local performers and highlighted the pressing need for equitable access to quality music programs, especially as cuts to music education are hitting schools hard in British Columbia and Toronto.
“Music Monday is not just about celebrating music; it’s about making a powerful statement about the necessity of access to quality music education for all students,” said Sinclair.
“With schools looking to cut or drastically reduce music programs, we must unite and call on Canada’s leaders to step up and invest in music education for our children’s future. Music education—especially elementary school band programs—plays a vital role in a child’s emotional, social, and cognitive development, offering lifelong benefits that extend far beyond the classroom."
Canadians who want to learn more and lend their support for music education are encouraged to visit Music Monday's website!
