DEBATES OF THE LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY (Hansard) Wednesday, February 20, 2008
2 Minute Statements - J. Horgan 
(system requirements)
J. Horgan: last year I had the pleasure to rise in this House and talk about the athletic achievements of members of my community. But the West Shore is not just about hockey; it's also about the arts. Today I want to take the opportunity to advise the Legislature about a special musical family in my constituency.
The story of Sidney and Spencer Needham starts with the awesome ensemble, the District of Soul. You don't have to go to Memphis or Motown to get a blast of the blues. Just roll into the Luxton Fall Fair or visit Jazz in the Park, and listen to the sweet sounds of soul right here in Malahat-Juan de Fuca.
The brainchild of Dunsmuir Middle School teacher Glenn Whitney, the District of Soul was formed in 2004 with 18 very talented students from Dunsmuir and Belmont Secondary. Glen saw the talent of these kids and turned to his teaching colleagues at Belmont, Glynis Dawson and the legendary Joyce Kopan, and he kept the melodies moving.
A wicked horn section and a rhythm duo to set the tempo, the District of Soul has gained a following across the region and is a show not to be missed. As awesome as the trumpets and the saxophones are, it's the power and clarity of the main vocalists that steal the show. That is where my longtime neighbours the Needhams take the troupe to another level.
Sidney, 18, and Spencer, 16, are accomplished soloists and recently put their talents up against 14 other contestants in the third annual PEERS charity fundraising performance of Victoria Idol. The packed house heard some incredible performances, but it was Spencer, the scrawny little brother, that won the day, and Sidney placed second runner-up. The scholarships are piling up, the studio time is being put to good use, and the recording contracts are sure to follow.
It is success stories like the Needhams' that highlight the importance of the arts in our public school system. It reinforces the enormous value of music educators in our schools and the need to support the arts whenever and wherever we can.
Will the Legislature please join me in celebrating the contribution of our music teachers and two wonderful kids with a mountain of Metchosin talent, a brother-and-sister combo that are going places - Sidney and Spencer Needham.
