Celebrating the Joy of Music

Music filled the air as students in Grades 3–6 took to the stage for the CFIS Spring Concert, celebrating a year of growth, creativity, and collaboration.

The afternoon opened with a student-led Land Acknowledgement presented in English, French, and sign language, setting the tone for a performance that brought together a remarkable cross-section of young musicians. 

From students just beginning their musical journeys to those performing with increasing confidence and skill, the concert showcased both the joy of music and the dedication it takes to become accomplished musicians.

Grade 3 students took to the stage after beginning their instrumental studies in January, performing Rondin Picotin, Rain Song, and Les bouffons. In just a few short months, they have learned the foundations of music and developed the confidence to perform in front of a large audience with accompaniment. Their performance was a meaningful milestone in what promises to be an exciting musical journey ahead.

Grade 4 students demonstrated their growing musical abilities through a variety of performances, including a special arrangement of The Lion Sleeps Tonight by Music Specialist Stacy Duncalfe. Having progressed to performing recorder pieces of more than 50 measures, students showcased their understanding of musical fundamentals while several students challenged themselves to memorize and perform harmonies by ear. The audience also enjoyed a performance of the CFIS song and the classic tune Beethoven's Ode to Joy.

For Grade 5 students, this year marked their first experience learning a band instrument. With just ten months of playing behind them, they brought fresh energy and enthusiasm to the stage. Their performances highlighted both technical and creative skills, from learning to carefully count rests to creating vivid imagery and storytelling through music.

Grade 6 students demonstrated the confidence and musical maturity that comes with years of practice and performance experience. Performing Dark Star and The Tempest, they showed how comfortable they have become playing for larger audiences while navigating increasingly sophisticated repertoire.

The concert also featured performances by the Grades 6–8 Stage Band, including All About That Bass. The ensemble impressed the audience with its energy and musicianship, while several students stepped forward for improvised solo performances. These moments required both confidence and courage, showcasing students' growing creativity and ability to perform independently in front of a live audience.

Adding to the celebration, members of the CFIS music program recently earned provincial recognition through the Alberta Band Association. Under the direction of Andrew Bacsalmasi, the CFIS Grade 6 and 8 Concert Bands received a Superior Rating at the 2026 Alberta Band Association Provincial Festival of Bands. The award recognizes an exceptional level of musical achievement and earned the ensemble an invitation to MusicFest Canada's National Festival.

Beyond the notes on the page, the concert highlighted the many lessons music teaches. As students learn to listen, communicate, and collaborate with one another across different instruments and musical parts, they develop skills that extend far beyond the stage. The confidence, growth, and joy on display throughout reflected not only the dedication of the student musicians, but also the guidance of Music Specialists Bonnie Jaycock, Andrew Bacsalmasi, and Stacy Duncalfe, who share their passion for music with students every day. When so many young musicians come together in a single performance, the result is something truly special.

As CFIS looks ahead to its future campus expansion, the school community is excited about the opportunities a new Music and Performing Arts Centre will provide, offering enhanced acoustics, improved sightlines, and even more opportunities for students to develop and share their talents for years to come.