Since its founding, Reaching Out through Music has trained and educated more than 200 children from the St. James Town community in choral, guitar, piano and violin programs.

In 2013 the St. James Town Children’s Choir performed as the demonstration choir for the Toronto District School Board’s Additional Qualifications Course in Vocal Music and for a workshop entitled Developing Choral Artistry, a joint project of the TDSB and the University of Toronto Faculty of Music. The SJTCC shared the stage with significant top-level Canadian artists, such as TSO violinist Carol-Lynn Fujino and Juno-nominated Autorickshaw Trio, and collaborated with the Canadian Children’s Opera Company.

Feedback from children and parents attests to Reaching Out Through Music’s lasting impact in building confidence, strong work habits, and strengthening the social and cultural fabric of St. James Town. Reaching Out Through Music also provides students with opportunities to experience the world beyond their immediate environment, thereby broadening their vision to new possibilities. Several of our students have used these opportunities to excel in the wider music community outside St James Town. For example, three of our students were invited to join the Canadian Children’s Opera Company.