Burlington students now have an opportunity to learn about the historical and cultural significance of the steelpan, thanks to the Harmony in the Classroom program.
The free program, run by the Canadian Caribbean Association of Halton (CCAH), was able to provide programming at up to 15 Burlington schools thanks to a $15,000 grant from BCF’s annual Community Granting Program. CCAH has run a free steelpan music program in Oakville schools since 2024.
“The Harmony in the Classroom program is an important initiative to ensure that students have equal access to culturally diverse programming,” said Dionne Downer, executive director of CCAH.
“Teachers and principals have expressed that students are starving for connections to creative, inclusive programming that promotes belonging, identity, and cultural understanding. The CCAH Steel Band performances are a unique and fun vehicle for this journey.”
The program offers elementary and secondary school students a chance to learn about the steelpan, an instrument born from resilience, creativity, and cultural expression in the Caribbean. It is offered in two formats, tailored to the number of students taking part.
Larger groups enjoy a performance and multimedia presentation, while smaller classrooms can take part in an interactive session where students learn to play the steelpan.
“Students gain not only technical exposure to a unique instrument, but also a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity, resilience, and the importance of the arts in community life,” said Dionne.
Schools can reach out to CCAH and request to participate in the program. The organization aims to expand Harmony in the Classroom to additional Burlington schools.