What's Joyful Noise?
The Joyful Noise Program is a Black-led community initiative that empowers youth and families through the gift of music. Operating under the vision and leadership of Bethel Apostolic Church, the program strives to provide equitable access to music education and mentorship opportunities for low-income and underrepresented children in the Parkland and Greater Edmonton region.
Participants engage in structured instruction, mentorship, and performance opportunities, allowing them to discover their voice, build confidence, and enhance their sense of belonging. The program fosters a supportive, faith-based, and culturally affirming environment.
What We Do
Music education has been shown to enhance academic performance, emotional regulation, and community engagement. Unfortunately, many low-income and Black youth face barriers to accessing these programs, including costs, transportation issues, and a lack of local opportunities.
The Joyful Noise Program directly addresses these challenges by providing free, high-quality music education that is accessible to all. This initiative is supported by trained volunteers and professional instructors, ensuring that every child—regardless of their background—has the chance to explore their creative potential and experience the joy of music.
The program primarily serves:
- Children and youth ages 6–17 from low-income and marginalized families.
- Black and racialized students who have historically had limited access to arts programming.
- Families in need of supportive, community-based enrichment opportunities.
While the program is inclusive and open to everyone, it is designed and led by Black community members who bring a profound cultural understanding and representation to its structure and mentorship.
Where We're Headed
What's the bottom line? The Joyful Noise Program aims to grow into a regional hub for music mentorship. In this place, youth can not only learn to play but also discover their voice, identity, and leadership potential. As the program matures, it will expand partnerships with schools, local musicians, and community organizations to reach even more families.
At its heart, Joyful Noise is about transformation through creativity—raising a generation that knows their worth, their talent, and their community purpose.
