Corpus Christi Elementary School recently participated in the Blues In The Schools program at Ottawa Bluesfest, which took place at LeBreton Flats on July 20, 2025. The final night of the festival showcased talented young performers instead of famous artists, offering an authentic and inspiring experience for the audience.
Students from approximately ten different schools, some as young as seven, took the stage, demonstrating their skills after months of practice. The event featured programs like Be in the Band, which connects young musicians with local artists in mentorship roles, as well as Blues in the Schools, which has expanded significantly since its inception in 1999 to impact thousands of students each year.
Bluesfest community programs manager Alan Marsden emphasized the pride derived from seeing students perform in front of their community, describing Blues in the Schools as “a large bucket of cuteness.” The first act of the evening included 22 Grade 2 students from Corpus Christi singing a 30-minute set filled with energetic movements and harmonica sounds mimicking trains.
Jeannie Wong, a devoted teacher involved in the program for 26 years, shared her commitment to sparking a passion for music in children. She dedicates her summer to preparing students for this unique opportunity, highlighting the joy she sees in their performances.
Later in the night, 18 bands from the Be in the Band program played rock and pop tunes, growing the audience even as rain began to fall. This initiative, launched in 2009, has paved the way for young artists aged 11-17 to rehearse, receive equipment, and perform. Participants, like 14-year-old Louisiana Saucier, noted the fun of being in a band with peers, while others, such as Aspen Horgan, expressed their nerves about performing for an audience after limited experience.
The programs have seen tremendous growth since their origins, with multiple schools now participating across Ottawa, fostering a deep and lasting appreciation for music among students. According to Marsden, some participants have shared that the experience has significantly transformed their lives.
This year’s Bluesfest not only celebrated music but also highlighted the incredible journey of young musicians discovering their talents and building community through shared experiences.