One local non-profit is striving to keep music education in Sooke.
Harmony Project Sooke (HPS) was founded in 2016, when Norman Nelson, former conductor of the Sooke Philharmonic Orchestra, along with concertmaster Anna McDougall and music educator Lorna Bjorklund, came together to make music education more accessible to the community's youth.
Now, they’re aiming to raise $60,000 this spring to help sustain the organization's future. Fundraising kicked off April 26, when HPS brought information and performances to Sookarama. The campaign will conclude June 10 with HPS’s year-end concert.
“[Harmony Project Sooke’s] mission is to enhance and enrich the lives of children and youth through the study of music,” said Bjorklund, HPS executive director.
“Music is a valuable tool for youth because it develops physical, emotional and social abilities.”
Over the years, some of their most successful programming has been their bi-weekly strings and drumline classes. The program gives students the ability to take home an instrument along with scores for practice, while also providing rehearsal space and performance opportunities. HPS provides these services at minimal cost to students, making music accessible and affordable for everyone.
Over the past year, HPS worked with 61 students across Sooke.
Now, Harmony Project Sooke is launching a new campaign to raise funds and keep its programming strong, as Bjorklund begins to consider life beyond the project.
“Now, in 2025, having built a thriving musical community that serves children from Grade 3 to graduation, I am thinking of succession,” said Bjorklund. “I am not 25 anymore, and I am turning to the Sooke community to ask for sustaining funds to ensure a strong and vital continuation of the HPS program.”
As they continue fundraising, HPS will be seeking donations and sponsorships from local businesses and residents. Donations can be made by cheque to Harmony Project of B.C., by e-transfer or online. More information on Harmony Project Sooke and how to donate can be found at www.harmonyprojectsooke.ca.
“We need to keep Harmony Project in Sooke so that children and youth can benefit from positive musical activities at minimal cost to families.”
