If you have been in the Courtenay Library on a Monday afternoon lately, you might have heard lively singing coming from the Multi Purpose Room. Those are the voices of a group that gathers every Monday from 1:15 p.m. to 2:15 p.m.. Led by volunteers, retired ESL teacher Leslie Corra, and music enthusiasts/teachers Sue Diederichs and Heather Pitman, the program, now in its third year, is known as English Through Song. It is a free, drop-in program for adults who enjoy singing and would also like to improve their English language skills.

All singing voices and levels of English are welcome. An ever expanding song book is provided to each participant, full of selections tailored to the group: from traditional, folk, seasonal, and pop songs, to action songs, jazz chants, echo songs, and rounds.  The songs provide a bridge to new vocabulary, expressions, and common slang. They also provide fluency practice and cultural, historical, and geographical information unique to Canada and elsewhere.

Participants are encouraged to ask questions and the leaders are continually learning from the group. It is great fun and there is an overall sense of well being, acceptance and camaraderie. 

If you are interested in finding out more, simply drop by the library on a Monday just before 1:15 p.m.. Our current winter session runs until March 10, excluding Family Day, Feb. 17. 

We gratefully acknowledge ongoing support from the Courtenay Library, the Immigrant Welcome Centre, and the Comox Valley Ukrainian Cultural Society.