Singing as a way to start the day with Sara Kae

Connected North Impact Series blog prepared by Jennifer Corriero

When singer and songwriter Sara Kanutski (a.k.a. Sara Kae) begins her music sessions with Connected North students, she sings ‘Good Morning Everyone’ and the students respond back “Good Morning Sara Kae” as part of a singing call and response. This simple activity is a way for students to use their voices and warm up and participate in an experience linked to the world of music.

“The sessions are great because we’re learning about the concept of music and what music can be for each individual student,” explains Sara. “It’s a chance to do what I’m passionate about and see other people passionate about it. It makes me feel good to see that music is going to be something very prominent in someone’s life.”

Sara’s approach invites students to consider how they feel as they listen to different songs that she performs during the sessions. “We do a lot of listening and understanding your emotions to music. I think that’s such an important tool to have, even as an adult. Music can help you process. Music can help you connect.” Sara invites children to remember the feelings that they experience when they are listening to music. This creates a heightened sense of self awareness and supports wellbeing.

One teacher describes how effective her approach is with classrooms. “Sara shared a lot in a short time and did it well. She was great at conversing with students of varying ages.”

Sara adapts to the needs of those she is interacting with. “Getting them involved from their feet to their head is the best way possible for younger students.”

One of the reasons that Sara is passionate about speaking to Indigenous students is because she feels that as an Ojibwe and Cree musician and journalist, increasing awareness about possible career options will encourage others to follow their dreams.

“It’s important for students to know different paths in life. There are people out in the community doing these things and making a living out of it. It is important to show they can put themselves in those positions as well.”

To learn more about Sara’s life path, watch or read her Fireside Chat interview. You can also listen to her new song, Constellations, on YouTube.