Upper Canada Chorus

Viaje embraces the unique ability of music to transport us to the experiences of other people. The central themes of this curriculum, whose name means "voyage" in Spanish, revolve around ideas of exploration and discovery. The human voice, tone and rhythm intertwine in a sensory odyssey through time toward an understanding of the universal impact of music. The goal of Viaje for each child is to transform their natural enthusiasm for discovery into a lifelong passion and aptitude for music.

When discovery gives way to enlightenment, and knowledge encourages action, the pursuit of music begins to tap the fullness of our human potential. Erudio, which means literally "to educate" in Latin, empowers children with the tools of the musician. The desire to create beauty provides a natural motivator for budding artists, and promotes engaged and active learning. Erudio meets children where they are - at an age when collecting skills is as natural as picking wild flowers or gathering shells on a beach.

Music, like art and life, is a process. Growth occurs when we encounter new stages and engage new states. Of more than 70 Ojibwa terms used to define various types of growth, "Minogi", which means "to grow well", captures best the essence of our curriculum for this age. Minogi embraces the natural rhythm of change; music provides artistic context for a maturing view of the world around us.

Without the necessity of language, music expresses feeling and thought. It gives wings to imagination and voice to emotion. Rooted in themes of confidence, artistry and self-worth, Avanzare, named from the Italian meaning "to go forward", encourages and cultivates the emerging artist. As young teens seek out their own individuality, Avanzare promotes both self-discovery and self-expression. Understanding our unique place in the tapestry of human diversity helps establish mutual respect - for the opinions, traditions and artistry of others.

As notes of music relate to each other in melody and harmony, so we as individuals are fitted to one another for growth in community. Amani, which means "peace" or "harmony" in Swahili, gives name to our primary performance, touring and recording curriculum. Teamwork and co-dependancy are keystones within Amani, and lead naturally to attitudes of commitment and responsibility.