More than 100 Newfoundland and Labrador English School District school communities have come together in a musical video compilation designed to celebrate our collective strength and unity in the face of challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The NLESD Virtual Choir video was released today (Thursday, April 9) on the District’s Twitter account and Youtube channel.

“Since in-school instruction was suspended in mid-March, District staff members have been focused on finding new ways to stay connected; support school communities, and enable students to continue learning at home,” said Goronwy Price, Chair of the Board of Trustees. “This project is a prime example of how we can still be together, in a virtual sense, and continue to build relationships and strengthen bonds.”  

After learning about a school-based virtual choir at Holy Heart High School in St. John’s, the District’s Fine Arts Program Specialist Jennifer Stanley teamed up with Holy Heart’s Choral Director Robert Colbourne to expand the project on a provincial scale. 

NLESD school communities were invited to submit a video singing ‘O Canada’, as people across Canada are sheltering-in-place and staying home to help lessen the impacts of the global pandemic. The resulting compilation features over 300 participants representing all areas of the province; some notable Newfoundlanders and Labradorians - and a very special guest cameo. 

“Music has the ability to bring people together when they need it most,” said Tony Stack, District CEO/Director of Education. “It is amazing what people can achieve when they get together behind an idea. I thank Ms. Stanley and Mr. Colbourne for spearheading this project, and our teachers, students, parents and special guests who jumped on board.”

The video can be accessed directly here: https://youtu.be/ShYcvPs2gj0.

The official release can be found in the link provided below.