About

Junior Jammers

By Tom Sertsis, Chief Jammer

The years 2020 through 2022 were very challenging for band programs in elementary schools across the province. Challenges posed by masking and social distancing made playing wind instruments prohibitive during this time. In late 2021 with the support of our School Community Council I piloted a guitar program in our elementary school. I immediately saw an excitement in my students that I had not seen since 2019. The feeling of watching students experience the magic of strumming their first chord or experience the power of playing in unison and playing rich harmonies together was electric.

In the summer of 2022 I was devastated by the news of the passing of my high school music teacher. I reflected not just about the musical knowledge she imparted on us students but also the opportunities for musical expression and leadership that she provided. One such opportunity was in the form of a small guitar ensemble. She not only gave us the access to perform in front a sizable audience of what were to become the following years grade 9 students, but also trusted us to choose the repertoire and compose one of the pieces. I didn’t know it at the time but that opportunity ignited a spark for learning, creativity and performing that changed the course of my life forever. I am forever grateful for her hard work, her kindness and dedication to her students. Thank you, Mrs. Ratcliffe!

I knew I had work to do and developed and refined a program to meet the needs of my beginning guitar students so they too can experience the magic that learning an instrument can bring.

Fast forward through 2 years of development and refinement and Junior Jammers was born. I am very excited to bring group guitar classes to your neighbourhood and get your kids started on their journey of guitar playing and a lifelong love of music.

Tom Sertsis

Music Teacher
BFA Mus., BEd Mus., OCT