Regent Park School of Music

For over 20 years Regent Park School of Music has witnessed the study of music help young people to flourish creatively, personally and academically… enriching their lives and future prospects. 

Their students have access some of Toronto’s best music teachers, and a vast array of musical instruments and options. Their brave and resilient students study everything: classical piano, strings, voice, brass, wind, percussion, electronic music, song writing and recording.   

Earlier this year, 14 RPSM students spent time recording some original music samples that Canadian record producer Frank Dukes had created for his Parkscapes initiative. With the purpose of supporting kids music education, this work ended up being used on Taylor Swift’s new album Lover as part of the track It’s Nice to Have a Friend. Proof to their students that anything is possible!  

The pandemic has necessitated the almost total remodelling of their courses and their delivery. Like many of us, they had to come to grips with not just COVID-19 and its economic fallout, but even more importantly the pervasive challenges posed by systemic racism. This just confirmed their commitment and dedication to their students, the majority of whom are from racialised backgrounds, to enrich their lives with music and give them opportunities to develop their confidence and believe in what they can achieve so that they too can thrive and have the bright future they so deserve.