Background
In addition to the robust music education already happening in our schools, the Burnaby School District is proud to offer an optional user-pay opportunity for students in Grades 6 and 7 to participate in an elementary band program that takes place after the school day, is taught by elementary music teachers, and run through the District’s Burnaby Community & Continuing Education (Burnaby CCE) program.
Launching in the 2026-27 school year, the Elementary Band Optional Program provides participants instrumental instruction to supplement the BC Music Education Curriculum that all students receive. Music education plays an important role in supporting students’ academic, social, and personal development.
Learn more about the creation of the program here in the announcement of the approval of the Elementary Band Optional Program.
Benefits of Participation
Participating in the Grade 6 and 7 band program gives students a fun and engaging way to explore music while learning alongside their peers.
Through playing an instrument in a group, students build confidence, develop listening and coordination skills, and experience the joy of making music together. This additional fee-based band program also encourages teamwork, responsibility, and is an opportunity for students to deepen skills through hands‑on music‑making, collaboration, and ensemble performance. Participation in band supports the development of discipline, teamwork, perseverance, and confidence – all while preparing children for future music opportunities in high school.
Program Details and Fees
Run through the District’s Burnaby Community & Continuing Education, the optional Grade 6 and 7 band program takes place after the school day and throughout the year from October to June.
- Fee: $350 per student for the school year. Annual fees will be due at the time of registration.
- Schedule: 28 instructional sessions per year, with one session per week for 90 minutes from 3:30 to 5pm. The final schedule will be finalized and announced prior to registration beginning.
- Locations: School locations will be announced prior to registration beginning.
Instrument Rentals
Students requiring instrument rentals will pay the cost directly to an external vendor for their rental. Information on instrument rental options will be shared with registered participants.
Registration
Further details on registration will be announced mid-April.
Withdrawals
All requests for refunds must be completed in writing via the withdrawal form and submitted to elementaryband@burnabyschools.ca.
The withdrawal form must be received by email. The following dates are key to how much and whether a refund will be provided for a withdrawal:
- June 15, 2026: Full refund if withdrawal is received on or before this date.
- September 20, 2026: Partial refund of $250 (which is minus a $100 processing fee), if withdrawal is received on or before this date.
- September 21, 2026: No refunds will be provided.
Contact
Contact us at elementaryband@burnabyschools.ca if you have questions beyond the information on our website about the Elementary Band Optional Program.
Posted March 30, 2026