Testimonials

“I’ve seen bad boys become good boys”
Dr. Barry Harris, Jazz Legend and Project Mentor

“It’s about giving the kids a forum to feel good about themselves because I think that’s where real change starts,”
Howard Rees, Project Director

from the TDSB…

“The TDSB is so fortunate to be a part of the ‘We Are One’ jazz project for the second year running. Through this initiative our students have been provided with the incredible opportunity to be a part of a choir and work with master musicians, experiencing the beauty and creative power of Jazz music first-hand. […] Thank you for inspiring our young people and inviting them to explore their creative energies.”
Chris Spence, TDSB Director of Education

“Dear Howard, It was an absolute joy to see and hear such wonderful sounds on a Friday evening. I was impressed with the discipline, quality and enthusiasm of all on stage. Your passionate leadership towards enabling such opportunities for our students is appreciated and was felt. Thank you. Regards,”
Donna Quan  TDSB Deputy Director

"It's such a privilege to have Dr. Harris in our little corner of the world, and for him to be working with our students is very special"...
"Music helps develop creativity, concentration, memory skills, personal enjoyment and a life-long appreciation of the arts," Appleby said. "But most importantly, it's a language so many of us enjoy in its countless forms and that shared passion connects us all."
Annie Appleby, TDSB Superintendent

“All of us who attended the gala performance were blown away by the talent and the variety with which students were able to express their talent (solos, individual made-up lyrics, band, strings, ballads and kid’s songs). It was all quite delightful. Everyone very much appreciated that the focus was on the students and that the evening was very casual and entertaining in nature, thanks to the good humour of Barry Harris.”
Steve Travers, Principal

“The (We Are One) project has given (the students) an opportunity that they don’t normally have because of the severe underfunding that the school system has gone through.” “(Jazz) is a genre that is normally outside of their reality.”
Nigel Barriffe, Teacher

“We don’t have choral events in the north for this number of schools normally,” Appleby said. “This is over and above anything that we would normally be doing.”
Annie Appleby, TDSB Superintendent

“Howard, I wanted to thank you for providing this wonderful opportunity for our students, staff, and parents at Percy Williams. Speaking to parents and students directly after the performance indicated how enjoyable the experience was for everyone. Even more than their enjoyment was how this opportunity potentially showed some of the students involved what is possible in the arts world as the grow up. I strongly believe that every child is great at something and I am confident the We Are One Jazz Project exposed many of the children to their gift in music. Thank-you.
I wish you continued success with this project. Regards,”
Frank Liu, Principal

“Hello Howard, Thank you for your work in realizing this project. It was a most enjoyable evening, and our students are so fortunate to have had the experience of performing with such talented musicians.  I’m sure they are memories for them that will last a life time! Sincerely, ”
Luisa Cangelosi, Principal

From student participants:

"(Barry Harris) tries to motivate us with positive things."
Student

“(Barry Harris) is simply inspiring.”
Student

"The Jazz Program has opened my eyes and is now helping me to chart a path toward a career in the arts".
Student