MusiCounts, Canada’s leading music education charity, revealed its nominees for the prestigious 2024 MusiCounts Teacher of the Year Award. Presented by Anthem Entertainment, the MusiCounts Teacher of The Year Award winner will receive a JUNO Award statuette, a $10,000 cash prize, a grant for their school through the MusiCounts School Music Funding Program, and grants made to additional schools in their honor.
The winner, chosen by an external committee of music education experts, will be announced during the 53rd Annual JUNO Awards live broadcast from the Scotiabank Centre in Halifax, NS on March 24th.
This year’s nominees represent a diverse group of educators from different corners of the country: Zeda Ali (Sunnyview Middle School, Brampton, ON), Robert Bailey (École Charlie Killam School, Camrose, AB), Élisabeth Bouchard-Bournier (École Des Explorateurs, Malartic, QC), Sarah Comerford (Macdonald Drive Junior High, St. John’s, NL), and Stephen Richardson (École St. Joseph, Yellowknife, NT)
Each nominee brings a unique touch to music education, demonstrating a commitment to their students and the communities they serve.
Zeda Ali stands out for her dedication to inclusivity in the music room, ensuring that students’ interests and cultures are reflected in the music they create. Notably, she introduced a steelpan program that empowers Caribbean students to connect with their heritage through music.
Robert Bailey boasts a remarkable 40+ year career, making a major impact on his community’s music scene by nurturing generations of young talent in concert and jazz bands.
Élisabeth Bouchard-Bournier, a two-time MusiCounts Band Aid Grant recipient, has been a pioneer in using music therapy techniques to enhance students’ emotional regulation and overall well-being.
Sarah Comerford is a true multitasker, leading six different ensembles at her school, playing in the Newfoundland Symphony Orchestra, and elevating the Newfoundland and Labrador Band Association to national prominence.
Stephen Richardson, a three-time MusiCounts Teacher of the Year nominee, celebrates the Northern music scene by preparing students for a lifelong journey in music through technology, songwriting, performance, and production opportunities.
Congratulations to the nominees for the 2024 MusiCounts Teacher of the Year Award, presented by Anthem Entertainment! This award shines the spotlight on the important work done by music educators in schools across the country. We’re thrilled to highlight the exceptional impact these five educators have had on their communities, schools, and most of all students.
Kristy Fletcher, President of MusiCounts
For more information on MusiCounts, the Teacher of the Year Award, and how to watch the JUNO Awards live broadcast, visit the MusiCounts website.
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