In Thunder Bay, École secondaire catholique de La Vérendrye is offering students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of French-language music, thanks to talented double bassist and jazz musician Martin Blanchet. Blanchet, renowned for his involvement in the local music scene, is the founder of the popular "Café Paris" musical event, which brings together the city's French and English-speaking communities around the theme of music. This initiative has not only strengthened the place of francophone culture in Thunder Bay, it has also inspired the creation of music courses in our high school.
From "Café Paris" to school music lessons
The idea of offering music lessons at school was born after a performance by Martin Blanchet at ESCLV, where he presented a festive version of "Café Paris". The enthusiasm generated by this performance prompted the launch of an educational project aimed at introducing young people in grade 9 to the art of music.e at 12e year to French popular and rock music, while also immersing themselves in a few classics, from Céline to Pagliaro to Les Trois Accords. The aim was to familiarize the students with this repertoire, while offering them the chance to familiarize themselves with instruments and musical practice.
A very well received project
Martin Blanchet's courses are a great success. One of the most remarkable aspects of this program is its accessibility: no previous musical level is required. Students begin with no previous experience, but as the semester progresses, they are able to play increasingly complex pieces and, at the end of the session, perform in concert in front of their families and peers. This is one of the main aims of the program: to enable young people to gain self-confidence and perform on stage, while learning musical discipline.
Evolving workshops
Students progress from simple pieces to more elaborate compositions, depending on their level. Groups form, solidify and evolve together, creating a dynamic of mutual support and musical camaraderie. The great popularity of these workshops has inspired some students to pursue their passion and even found their own group, a fine demonstration of the success of this project.
In January, they performed at The Foundry restaurant for their exams, in front of an enthusiastic audience delighted to see such passionate young people.
>> Watch Martin Blanchet's interview about these music courses on Radio-Canada
