Mathieu has an experience of a lifetime

CONSEIL SCOLAIRE CATHOLIQUE

DU NOUVEL-ONTARIO

 

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Jeunesse-Nord student shines at the “Quand ça nous chante” music festival

 

High school musicians from the Conseil scolaire catholique du Nouvel-Ontario (CSCNO) had the experience of a lifetime at the 10th annual “Quand ça nous chante” music festival.

 

Nearly 430 up-and-coming musicians from 35 Ontario francophone secondary schools took part in this gathering which took place from February 7 to 10 at Collège catholique Samuel Genest in Ottawa.

 

Mathieu Paquin, a grade 12  student at École secondaire catholique Jeunesse-Nord in Blind River, earned the best stage performer award (Coup de Cœur de parrain “Bête de scène”). 

 

This prize is presented to the artist or group that demonstrated outstanding stage presence in a musical performance. 

 

Mathieu Paquin, recognized for his talent as singer and musician (guitar and bass player), displayed energy and showmanship in an unforgettable interpretation of songs with the band La Volée du Nord.

 

He had the crowd on its feet when he interpreted the song “Zone” from Brian St-Pierre.

 

The young artist, led by teachers Michel Levac and Kevin Dunlop, invested a great deal of energy into rehearsing his performance, and it paid off.

 

Motivated by this experience, Mathieu looks forward to pursuing his passion in music.

 

He intends to continue writing songs and performing in various shows until the end of the school year.

 

Following his university studies, he would like to pursue a career as a music and drama teacher.

 

“Mahtieu Paquin and members of La Volée du Nord enjoyed the opportunity to present a 25-minute show at the music festival to other students, whose passion for music is equally strong. They received professional feedback regarding their performance, and took part in two workshops led by professional artists,” explained Mr. Michel Levac, ÉSC Jeunesse-Nord teacher. “By being exposed to various styles of francophone music and through their contacts with other musicians from across the province, Mathieu and other CSCNO students were able to see and hear for themselves that the French-language music industry is alive and well in Ontario and that a musical career in French is a real possibility.”

 

The Quand ça nous chante festival is an educational activity offered by the Association des professionnels de la chanson et de la musique (APCM).