Singing, performing and learning about music and performance are at the core of the VMA for boys and girls with a passion to sing and perform. Students will experience music from around the world and learn about the musicians and music that have shaped our world. Also, music will be integrated into many other areas of the curriculum.
Students Who Would Benefit
Students will excel if they demonstrate that they are responsible, organized, independent, self-regulating and have the ability to collaborate. Students will excel if they have had additional experiences reading music, singing in school or community choirs, vocal or instrumental music lessons, attended musical camps or participated in music theatre. Students will excel if they have the ability to manage curricular and extra-curricular expectations at the VMA.
What to Expect
Students will have the opportunity to sing every day. Students will engage in reading, writing, creating and listening to music. Numerous performance opportunities will be offered in the school and in the community through glee clubs, large ensemble singing groups, musical theatre, small groups, chamber ensembles and solo performances. No previous training in music is required - just a passion for singing.
Where is The DOWNTOWN VOCAL MUSIC ACADEMY?
The DOWNTOWN VOCAL MUSIC ACADEMY of Toronto is located in the heart of the Kensington Market area, steps from the Art Gallery of Ontario, Chinatown, and the exciting Queen Street West neighbourhood.
Why the Downtown VMA?
The Downtown Vocal Music Academy of Toronto helps develop our future musicians and artists. This unique program in the TDSB engages students with a passion for music and performance. The VMA is one of the five new Elementary Academies that opened in September 2012 that focus on promoting excellence and encouraging the talents of all students.
Additional Features
● Partnership with Scadding Court CC
● Breakfast, Snack and Lunch Program
● Extra Curricular Sports Programs
● On-site Afterschool Programs
● 2 onsite Daycares
● Afterschool Programs Close-by
● Extra Curricular Music Programs
● Technology Integrated Classrooms
Student Life - Where You Belong
Students will have an opportunity to sing everyday. They will engage in reading, writing, creating and listening to music. In addition, numerous performance opportunities will be offered in the school and in the community through glee clubs, large ensemble singing groups, musical theatre, small groups, chamber ensembles and solo performances. Students will develop their musical knowledge and ability by studying many different musical styles from any cultures and time periods. Students will not only engage in many musical activities, but they will have opportunities to try out for sports teams, participate in intramural sports during lunch hour and be part of various clubs that they choose. The time of year and the number of students interested in the sports and clubs will determine what is available at any given time.
What Sets Us Apart
Downtown Vocal Music Academy of Toronto offers an enriched curriculum. Music is incorporated into every aspect of learning in addition to the curriculum set by TDSB and the Ministry of Education. Instrumental and Vocal music is part of the program and your child can take additional instrumental lessons through our partnership with SOL Music. This atmosphere is especially geared towards budding musicians, artists and performers.
Parent and Community Engagement
Parents are always welcome at VMA. We encourage participation through attendance at events, Parent Council meetings, and volunteering. Our community partners are consistently running programs that students can partake in as well as enhancing our daily school life with nutrition programs, after school activities and workshops geared to build self-esteem, self-awareness, and community involvement.
