Music Monday is a national movement that encourages students to show their love and appreciation for music on the first Monday of May. Initiated by the Coalition for Music Education in Canada, the event promotes the important links between school music programs, communities and the cultural vitality of Canada.

According to Balaclava School principal Valerie Stephens-Brockbank, students at the 10th Concession East educational facility participated in the program following an invitation from Our Lady of Mount Carmel School principal Vito Colella.

"It is a nice opportunity for the two schools to interact and have a common interest," she said.

Music Monday kicked off with a high-voltage, outdoor performance at 9:30 a.m. when Our Song by the Dala girls was played. Schools across the nation belted out the tune simultaneously. The event wrapped up locally at 1 p.m. with a final performance by the OLMC choir.

"It's a beautiful opportunity to get together, not only with students of Carlisle, but we're joining with students across the world," said Colella.

This was the first Music Monday for both Carlisle educational facilities. Jazz singer and OLMC parent, Janet Ebos, spearheaded the event. When she first heard of Music Monday, she thought it represented a great way for students of all grades to get involved.

The OLMC choir learned the song in a three-part harmony, while the remaining students learned the lyrics in their respective classrooms.

Prior to the event, Stephens-Brockbank told the Review that teachers at Balaclava School described Our Song as "beautiful" and were "enthused about doing it."

Now in its fourth year, Music Monday involved more than 1,500 schools and organizations last year, which represented more than 650,000 students, teachers, parents and music lovers everywhere, noted the event's website.

For more information on the Coalition for Music Education in Canada, visit www.coalitionformusiced.ca.

- With files from Marnie Jadon