Harmony Project Society of British Columbia

The Harmony Project Society of British Columbia, a registered Canadian charity, is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing music education to children and youth in the Sooke area. Founded in 2016, it is modeled after the successful Harmony Project in Los Angeles. The society's charitable number is 784563496RR0001.

Purpose and Programs

The primary objective of the Harmony Project Society of British Columbia is to foster healthy youth development and vibrant community engagement through musical education and ensemble participation. It offers two main programs: Strings and Drumline. The Strings program caters to students from grades 2 to 6, focusing on instruments such as violins, violas, and cellos. The Drumline program is available for students in grade 6 and above.

Impact and Research

Research supports the idea that musical education has a profound impact on children's cognitive and emotional development. Participating in music programs can enhance brain development, promote discipline, and encourage teamwork and joy. By providing these opportunities, the Harmony Project aims to not only develop musical talents but also contribute to the well-being and success of young participants.

Background

The initiative was brought to Sooke by Maestro Norman Nelson of the Sooke Philharmonic Orchestra, who was inspired by his visit to the Harmony Project in Los Angeles. Nelson observed firsthand how music education could transform children's lives and decided to introduce a similar program to his community.

Operations

The classes are held outside of regular school hours, meeting twice a week. This setup allows students to engage in focused musical instruction while maintaining their regular academic schedules. The project serves about 50 children in the Sooke area, providing them with valuable opportunities for musical growth and social interaction.