Student musicians from across the Upper Canada District School Board (UCDSB) were recognized for their performances at the Capital Region MusicFest, with three school bands earning high standards at the regional festival held February 24-28 in Kanata.
Concert bands from Rockland District High School (RDHS), Seaway District High School (SDHS), and North Dundas District High School (NDDHS) represented the UCDSB at the event, performing for adjudicators and participating in workshops designed to help students refine their musical skills.
At the event, ensembles are evaluated and ranked based on a set of performance standards rather than competing against each other. Bands receive a Gold, Silver, Bronze, or Merit standard based on the overall quality of their performance.
Following each school's performance, students participated in a workshop led by an esteemed adjudicator, where they received feedback and worked on techniques to strengthen their performances.
The RDHS band earned a Silver Standard, demonstrating an exceedingly high level of musical performance. This achievement is an exciting milestone for the school's growing music program, which attended the festival for the first time this year.
The RDHS band includes approximately 30 students in Grades 8-11. The program has grown significantly this year thanks in part to a $16,000 MusiCounts grant that helped the school purchase instruments and expand opportunities for students interested in music.
The NDDHS and SDHS bands also earned recognition, each receiving the Bronze Standard for their performances. The SDHS ensemble includes 38 students in Grades 7-12, many who are new to the program this year. The NDDHS ensemble is made up of 25 students from Grades 8-12.
Teachers expressed pride in their students' dedication and growth. The experience provided valuable feedback and learning opportunities that will help the bands continue developing their skills as they prepare for upcoming performances throughout the remainder of the school year.
All three bands will also participate in Grandioso, a music festival organized by teachers within the UCDSB, taking place on May 5, 2026.
For more information
225 Central Avenue West
Brockville Ontario
Canada K6V 5X1
www.ucdsb.on.ca
