The internationally-recognized World Music Program has as its highest aspiration the fostering of a compassionate global consciousness through the development of musical skills and the act of creating performance works. It was founded in 2004 by Adrian Dyck and Paige Freeborn, who are its Directors. It is a performance program that provides a context for students to develop interest, curiosity and
enjoyment in their own musical creativity and that of others. In the World Music Program the musical, creative, ethical, intellectual, and emotional sides of young people are developed. Students develop social-emotional skills, and learn how their own individual contributions are important in achieving collective goals. Team-building in collaboration with others, as well as a focus on individual learning styles are balanced. Students are given the opportunity to work alongside professional musicians and educators to develop musicianship and imagination. Individual creativity is highly encouraged, and each student’s character and personal learning style is honoured and celebrated. This is balanced with a unique approach to learning that facilitates the development of high-performing teams; increased social awareness; and the development of a compassionate response to the world around us. From the beginning of their time in the World Music Program, students are guided on a journey that involves not only the development of a high level of musical skill and academic knowledge and understanding, but also the development of character. The systematic development of trust, respect, empathy, compassion, gratitude, and social responsibility are hallmarks of the program. Through inquiry-based learning, students study a wide range of topics, such as music performance, theory, and history; the ways in which music helps bring about positive social change; cultural diversity and appropriation; personal and cultural expression; composition, technology, and innovation; and the study of the natural world. The World Music Program runs within the context of Brockton School, which focuses on creating a safe and caring school environment, in which each child can reach their personal potential. The program supports the school ethos by providing a supportive and caring environment in which students can feel safe to explore their musicality, and create from a place of authenticity and vulnerability. Over the years the World Music Program has received international recognition from the UNESCO-founded "International Society of Music Education"(ISME) as one of the most innovative music education programs in the world. The program toured to China (to present the student-composed "Gratitude Project") and Greece to perform at ISME conferences. More recent invitations include the Aberdeen International Youth Festival AIYF), one of the largest and longest-running performing arts festivals in the world, as well as an invitation to perform at a competition at Carnegie Hall in New York City, where students took home a goal medal. Recently, students performed for an audience of 5,000 at the Vancouver Convention Centre, where they introduced Canadian International Space Station Commander, Chris Hadfield. Outreach and education concerts are a constant source of inspiration for students; over the years the WMP has contributed its uplifting music to schools, hospices, hospitals, cultural inclusion events, and other charitable community causes.
