At a time when people all over the world are finding creative ways to express a sense of solidarity and community, Shawnigan’s Alumni Engagement team came up with the idea of producing an alumni music compilation of the School’s hymn “Voice in the Wilderness.”

 

Lisa Grover '90 (Kaye's), Chair of the Alumni Engagement Committee and current board member, shared her excitement for the project:

 

“Shawnigan’s foundation is built on community and connection. At this challenging time, when it is imperative that we remain physically separated, we must continue to be emotionally connected and draw on the collective strength of our school community.  Shawnigan’s school hymn connects us all and I hope this musical offering lifts your spirits and brightens your days. I am overwhelmed by the enthusiasm and support received from our incredible musicians, who gave so freely of their talent and time.” 

 

Russ Quinn ’64 (Groves’), Ash Varma ’75 (Groves’), Carl Wright Bradley ’78 (Groves’), Sarah Lane ’97 (Groves’), Katy Mayert (nee Bowen-Roberts) ’97 (Groves’), Kelsey McDaniel ’97 (Groves’), Jack Connolly ’02 (Lake’s), Cassie Chang ’16 (Renfrew), Kalli King ’18 (Strathcona), Daniela de Anda Usabiaga ’19 (Kaye’s), Amelia Macintosh ’19 (Kaye’s) and Ken Lavigne (current parent) all agreed to take part in the initiative.

 

Alumnus, musician and Shawnigan Fine Arts instructor, Jack Connolly, created a back track for the participants to follow. Once complete, each video was submitted to a Shawnigan production team, including industry veterans and Shawnigan staff members Neil Trafford and Steve Smith, who combined the individual clips into a final compilation video.

The result of this enthusiastic school spirit and technical expertise is a video featuring all twelve people singing a rousing rendition of the school hymn from their homes across Vancouver Island, mainland B.C., the USA and Mexico. Alumnus and member of Shawnigan's Board of Governors, Carl Wright Bradley, provided an inspirational introduction to the finished product.