HAMILTON-WENTWORTH CATHOLIC DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
Bishop Ryan Catholic Secondary School Students Achieve 2nd place in Music Challenge

Bishop Ryan Catholic Secondary School's music class has secured an impressive 2nd place in the CBC Music Class Challenge, a prestigious nationwide competition recognizing outstanding performances by music educators and their students. Organized annually by CBC Music and MusiCounts, the challenge invites music classes to select a Canadian song, teach it to their students, and submit a performance video for a chance at prizes and recognition.

Under the guidance of music teacher Nancy Boss, the Bishop Ryan music class chose to interpret Dominique Fils-Aimé's "Mind at Ease." Boss underscored the competition's significance, stating, "The CBC Music Class Challenge is just one of the many opportunities for students to experience the life-changing benefits of music education. My experience having my students participate in this Canada-wide celebration of Canadian music has reaffirmed my passion for being an advocate for the arts in our schools. Our Bishop Ryan vocal music students demonstrated perseverance, resiliency, teamwork, inclusivity, and spirit many of the Catholic values we strive for every day."

Students shared their perspectives on the journey. Grace, a Grade 9 student, expressed her excitement, saying, "Singing in the CBC Competition was a cool experience, and it was really exciting to place 2nd! I'm really proud of our class."

Iva, a Grade 9 student, reflected on personal growth, stating, "Developing with my classmates and growing as a vocalist was a fantastic learning experience."

Kailey, another Grade 10 student, emphasized the collective effort, expressing, "I'm so proud to have been a part of such an incredible group of singers that have worked so hard to create such a masterpiece."

Ife, also a Grade 10 student, highlighted the significance of the achievement: "Participating in the CBC Competition was a fun experience. My class worked very hard to prepare and practiced every chance we got. Coming 2nd place from all over Canada is a great accomplishment and is a memory I will cherish forever."

The competition showcased the talent and dedication of Bishop Ryan's grade 9/10 vocal music class, reflecting the school's commitment to providing a faith-filled and well-rounded education that includes a strong emphasis on the arts. The HWCDSB congratulates Nancy Boss and the students for their outstanding achievement in the CBC Music Class Challenge, underscoring the school's ongoing commitment to excellence in music education.

See video below: