Good Day from the Bay: Sistema Launches in St. Stephen, NB

In a recent episode of Good Day from the Bay, hosts Vicki Hogarth and Jonathan Brittain shined a spotlight on Southwest New Brunswick's vibrant culture and the role of music in shaping young lives.

Sistema New Brunswick: Expanding Opportunities for Youth

A key segment of the episode highlighted the expansion of Sistema New Brunswick into St. Stephen, a development that marks a significant milestone for the program. Originally founded in Caracas, Venezuela, Sistema has become a global initiative dedicated to using music education to promote social change. In New Brunswick, the program has grown into a lifeline for children, offering them both artistic and personal development.

Kenn Mainville, President and CEO of the New Brunswick Youth Orchestra, shared how Sistema has evolved over the past 15 years. “We began in Moncton with just 50 kids in a school basement. Today, we’re working with 1,200 kids a day across nine centres in the province,” he said. Beyond music, the program focuses on inspiring children to reach their full potential. “It’s about fostering resilience, discipline, and teamwork,” Mainville emphasized, noting the positive effect the program has had on academic performance and school attendance.

Rachel Kidd, Director of Sistema Saint John, described the daily routine at the Millidgeville North School, where the program operates. "We meet the kids as they get off the bus, and then it’s straight into practice. They work incredibly hard every day,” Kidd explained. The program’s recent launch at St. Stephen Elementary and Milltown Elementary marks its second expansion into a rural area, which is particularly meaningful for the community. 

Catriona McLanaghan, who is overseeing the St. Stephen launch, expressed her enthusiasm: “This is a huge opportunity for local kids who might not otherwise have access to arts education.”

Sistema New Brunswick’s impact has extended far beyond the province, with the Children’s Orchestra having performed at Carnegie Hall. Mainville reflected on the experience: “For the kids, it was the thrill of a lifetime."

A Performance by Jacob Rose

Local Charlotte County musician Jacob Rose also took the stage, performing his latest single, "Wharfbound." Rose’s folk-inspired music resonated with the audience, as his lyrics painted a vivid picture of life and love in the Maritimes. Originally from Alberta, Rose spoke about his deep connection to the region after settling in St. Stephen. “I came here for university, met my wife, and never left,” he shared, reflecting on how the community has influenced his work.

Rose's appearance also included a light-hearted segment where he participated in Good Day from the Bay's questionnaire, mentioning some of his favourite local spots, including the local brewery Saint Andrews Brewing Company.

Community Highlights

The episode wrapped up by celebrating local milestones, including a couple’s 70th wedding anniversary and the 200th anniversary of Chestnut Hall. As autumn sets in, Good Day from the Bay continues to capture the spirit of Southwest New Brunswick, bringing stories of community to the forefront.