Josh Hill

Redefining Excellence: TEDxKitchenerED

In this heartfelt and inspiring TEDx talk, music educator Josh Hill shares the story of how The Circle of Music became instrumental in his vision for an inclusive high school music department. As the head of Cameron Heights Collegiate Institute in Kitchener, Ontario, when The Circle of Music was created, Josh Hill recognized the alignment of an intergenerational music program rooted in connection, compassion, and community and his concept of what music education could be.. Josh reflects on his journey to shift the focus of music education from competition to collaboration. His talk highlights the powerful ways music can be used as a vehicle for relationship-building, belonging, and inclusion.

At the centre of his story is a moving choral performance by The Circle of Music, consisting of his high school students and a group of senior citizens living with dementia. This moment in the TedEx talk, emotional and deeply human, illustrates the heart of The Circle of Music: the belief that shared musical experiences can bridge generational divides, foster empathy, and create space for healing and joy.

Through its partnerships, The Circle of Music has grown into an ongoing community-rooted choir where youth and older adults come together in song. Josh’s talk beautifully captures The Circle of Music initiative and reminds us of the transformational power of music when used to create inclusive and supportive communities.