The Royal Conservatory is presenting their inaugural "Thank A Teacher" award this May, and a local teacher was among the top 10 finalists chosen from nearly 1,200 teachers nominated across the country.
Weyburn music teacher Colleen Weimer was among the finalists. She was nominated by student Britney Alexander, who wrote: "Almost half of the 540 students at Weyburn Comprehensive High are enrolled in (Weimer's) choir program, and she is choir teacher at two elementary schools. Choir is cool in Weyburn. From football players to yearbook members, track stars to debaters, everyone participates because her classroom is fun and students achieve musicianship of the highest standard She also conducts an extracurricular girls' chorus and an audition choir known as the STARS Show Choir."
In addition, Weimer directs and choreographs large musical productions at each local public school every year.
Sponsored by the SOCAN Foundation, the "Thank A Teacher" Award recognizes an outstanding music educator who enriches and inspires students through their ongoing commitment to music education.
"It has been absolutely inspiring to see the outpouring of past and present students across Canada advocating for the music teachers who made a profound difference in their lives," said Angela Elster, vice-president, Academic, The Royal Conservatory. "All our nominees are more than teachers; they are also mentors and supporters who inspire creativity and foster a lifelong love of music throughout their communities."
The award will go to Bernice (Bunny) Pearce of West Vancouver. Pearce was selected because of her dedication to music education in a career spanning over five decades, beginning in her hometown of Saltcoats, Saskatchewan. Her impact as a vocal and piano teacher has encouraged her students to pursue careers as performers and music educators. She received 15 nominations from students across the country.
"I'm 77 years old. I feel so fortunate to still be able to do what I love to do with music," said Pearce. "It's overwhelming to think that out of all the teachers I have been chosen. It means so much to me. I do what I do for my kids, not for the recognition."
As the winner of the "Thank A Teacher" Award, Pearce receives $5,000 courtesy of the SOCAN Foundation. She will be presented with the award in Toronto on May 13 at The Royal Conservatory as part of The Promise of Music, a day-long music education symposium for artists, educators, business leaders, and policy makers, emphasizing the critical importance of music to the cognitive, social, and creative development of children and youths.
