$46,600 OTF Grant from the Ontario Government Lifts Up Orléans Through Song
Ottawa, ON – On Tuesday, the Ottawa Children’s Choir Orléans Choir Rehearsal celebrated the $46,600 Seed grant they received from the provincial government’s Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) that was used to establish a graduated choral music training program for children in Orléans. The project will enhance access to arts education in Orléans.
“I am thrilled to know that the comprehensive music education program of the Ottawa Children’s Choir is flourishing and expanding in the region,” said Stephen Blais, MPP for Orleans. “Music education itself has been proven to enhance all other types of learning, and the Trillium Foundation’s $46,000 grant will increase access to this choral music training program for children in Orléans!”
Children in the new choir experience weekly rehearsals focused on learning repertoire and chorister skills. The professional choral conductor and collaborative pianist, incorporate the development of musical skills, life skills, building confidence and forging friendships throughout the rehearsal process.
This project is the first step of a multi-season expansion plan. In 3-5 years the OCC aims to plant multiple remote choirs across the National Capital Region. Robert Filion, Artistic Director said “I am particularly proud that we have been able to give a solid and professional choral education opportunity to many children who could not attend rehearsals in downtown Ottawa. These new choristers are now engaged in a lifelong love for choral music and they will be part of the choral community for the rest of their lives,”
Created in 1958 as the Ottawa Board of Education Central Choir, the OCC is devoted to artistic excellence, community connection and, above all, the joy of singing. OCC provides inclusive choral music education in a nurturing environment for children aged 5-18 of all backgrounds in the Ottawa area. They are currently accepting new chorister applications at www.ottawachildrenschoir.ca
The Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF) is an agency of the Ontario government with a mission to build healthy and vibrant communities across the province. Last year, OTF invested nearly $105M into 732 community projects and multi-sector partnerships. Projects aim to enhance economic well-being, foster more active lifestyles, support child and youth development, provide spaces for people to come together and connect, and create a more sustainable environment. Visit otf.ca to learn more.
