Three Springfest concerts represent best of Pickering College's music program

The Hilltop was alive with the sound of music yesterday for our three Springfest concerts! Loved ones, students, and staff looked on as students from Kindergarten to Grade 12 share their musical talents. 

At the Junior School concert in the morning, the audience was treated to the Grade 5 Beginner Band, the Grade 4 ukulele ensemble, the Grade 3 recorder ensemebl and the Kindergarten choir, the Primary Choir, and the Junior Choirs, plus a finale featuring singers from all the groups. 

In the afternoon, the Middle School Concert highlighted the Grade 6, 7, and 8 bands plus the Junior Jazz band who have braved early morning practices to perfect their sound. 

The Senior School concert capped off the day in the evening with Grade 9/10 band and the Grade 11/12 ensemble, plus a special presentation from the OBA Wind Ensemble, the Intermediate and Senior Jazz bands and the Senior Choir. 

Thank you to our dedicated music faculty and talented musicians!

Senator Robert Black spends a day at Pickering College

We were happy to welcome Senator Robert Black to Pickering College on Thursday, April 17. Senator Black began his visit by meeting with Dr. Lock and members of Student Committee. He then spoke with the Grade 5s about his role in the Senate of Canada, which they have been learning about in class. 

Senator Black then attended and spoke at the Earth Day Morning Meeting. Afterward he visited the Quaker Meeting House with the Grade 10 civics classes, and answered questions from the students about the role of the Senate in Canada, his background and what he enjoys most about being a Senator. 

After enjoying lunch with the Middle School Youth Engagement Organization, Senator Black toured the Blue & Silver Farm. Coming from an agricultural background, he shared his expertise and ideas with the students. 

Back on the Hilltop, Senator Black was interviewed by Senior School student Chantel on 102.7 CHOP fm. You can listen to their interview online. 

Pickering College students perform at CISMF

Congratulations to all the Pickering College students who participated in CISMF, the Conference of Independent Schools Music Festival, on Saturday, April 5 at Roy Thomson Hall. This festival brings together more than 1,400 musicians from independent schools across Ontario and is a long-standing and beloved tradition. 

Pickering College was represented by a number of instrumentalists from Middle and Senior School and the entire Junior Choir, composed of students in Grades 3 to 5. Music faculty member Ms. Rebecca MacDonald was also chosen to conduct one of the bands and our Instructional Lead for Arts, Ms. Ellen Wells was chosen as the accompanist for the finale performance.