Early musical training has an effect on brain development to produce long-lasting changes in motor abilities and brain structure. Music education facilitates student academic achievement by recalling and retaining verbal information, improvements in math and that advantage that music provides increases over time. It also boosts reading, and French and English language arts skills. Music fosters a feeling of community and this supports better study habits and self-esteem. Ultimately, music education develops the creative capacities for lifelong success.
Music at Honoré Mercier is taught from Grade 1 to Grade 6. It is taught in French. Using Orff, Kodaly and Dalcroze teaching methods, the concepts of melody, rhythm, harmony, form and expression are taught sequentially and reinforced in each cycle. Each year, the students put on a holiday concert and end of year concert to show parents what they have learnt and how they have improved. Students in Cycles 2 and 3 also have the opportunity to go and see the Montreal Symphonic Orchestra perform live!
Honoré Mercier also participates in the CBC Music Class Challenge where it usually places in the top 10 over all entries. We also boast an afterschool band program that participates in the QBA Honour Band and lunch time choir that participates in various activities.
