At a celebratory signing ceremony hosted at Douglas College today, Douglas and Sarah McLachlan School of Music (SoM) launched a new partnership that supports young musicians and removes financial barriers to accessing music education.
Grammy- and Juno-winning artist Sarah McLachlan, who was awarded Douglas’ highest honour of Honorary Fellow earlier this year, signed an agreement in support of the transformative impact of music education alongside Douglas College President, Kathy Denton. Members from across the Douglas community attended the event including SoM students, local politicians, donors and College leadership. SoM students showcased their musical talents for the occasion, which was held in the Douglas College Theatre, the very space where they perform and practise.
“This partnership is about opening doors,” said Colleen Maybin, Director of Performing and Fine Arts at Douglas College. “Arts education can transform lives, but too often, financial barriers stand in the way. Together with Sarah McLachlan School of Music, Douglas is creating the opportunity for more students to access the power of music, creativity and community – and succeed.”
McLachlan, a long-time advocate of equitable access to music education, has devoted much of her career to empowering young people through music.
"Sarah McLachlan School of Music is about removing barriers that young people face in accessing the benefits of music,” said McLachlan. “Our partnership with Douglas College, who houses our New Westminster school, is critical to the success of our program. This year, we have more than 150 students enrolled at SoM New West, with students commuting from as far as Mission, BC to access our programs. We are so grateful to Douglas College for sharing our belief that access to music should be a priority, not a privilege.”
Douglas has been home to SoM in New Westminster since November 2024, providing high-quality music education at no cost to over 200 young musicians who would otherwise not have the opportunity to study music.
Douglas College is the largest college in B.C., combining the academic foundations of a university and the employer-ready skills of a college to graduate resilient, global citizens who adapt, innovate and lead in a changing world.
-30-
Contact
Elizabeth Douglas
Communications Officer