Two Bishop Alexander Carter Students Have Been Selected to Participate in the National Youth Band of Canada

Camden Babin and Julia Gardner, Grade 12 students at Bishop Alexander Carter C.S.S, have been selected to participate in the 2021 National Youth Band of Canada. In order to be selected, they had to submit audition pieces and technical requirements that demonstrated their high level of skill.

The National Youth Band of Canada is a music education youth project offered by the Canadian Band Association. The selected members will meet virtually to practice together, conduct virtual performances and create recordings. The National Youth Band program will wrap up on May 3, 2021.

Both Camden and Julia have been playing musical instruments since elementary school. Camden currently plays the alto saxophone and Julia currently plays the tenor saxophone. They both enjoy the challenge and emotional connection that instrumental music has offered them and look forward to being able to collaborate and be a part of a virtual ensemble.

“I think it is important for students to see the benefits and rewards that come with embracing music and the arts while in school,” said Camden.

“I am so grateful for this opportunity and am excited to learn from other students who share the same passion. We are both so grateful to our mentors for their guidance throughout the audition process!” said Julia.

Julie Denomme, teacher at Bishop Alexander Carter, has served as a mentor for both students and encouraged them to audition for the program.

“Julia and Camden are two very dedicated students who spent a lot of time preparing for this audition. Their music education has been a big part of their secondary school years and I have no doubt that it has helped them build essential skills and will also prepare them for their future,” she said.

“We couldn’t be prouder of Julia and Camden. As a past secondary music teacher, I know the hard work, talent and dedication it takes to be selected by the Canadian Youth Band of Canada. The skill level they demonstrated in their audition material was so impressive and inspiring! We know they will represent Bishop with pride,” said Stephanie Venturi, Principal of Bishop Alexander Carter Catholic Secondary School.

“Sudbury Catholic is proud to support music education and is pleased to offer instrumental music for all students beginning in Grade 7,” said Joanne Bénard, Director of Education for the Sudbury Catholic District School Board.

For more information about the National Youth Band of Canada, please go to: www.canadianband.org.