Anne Turner of Vanier Catholic Secondary School has received the second annual MusiCan Teacher of the Year Award.

In recognition of her contribution to music education, she will receive a $10,000 cash donation, a $10,000 contribution to her school's music program and an all-expenses paid trip to the 2007 Juno Awards in Saskatoon.

'A great music teacher has the ability to turn notes on a page into inspiration for children,' Melanie Berry, president of the Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (CARAS), said Friday from Toronto.

'CARAS recognizes that teachers are the frontline of music education, that is why we are so pleased to announce Anne Turner as the 2006 MusiCan Teacher of the Year. This is a celebration of Anne's outstanding achievements and dedication.'

'I was thrilled to be nominated but I am honoured to be chosen the MusiCan Teacher of the Year,' said Turner.

'As I think of the wonderful music educators who have inspired me over the years, I am humbled to receive this award, and would like to share this with them in spirit.'

The award recognizes the accomplishments of one outstanding music educator whose contribution to music education within his or her community is exemplary of the MusiCan mandate to enlighten, empower and elevate.

Turner has taught music for 23 years, the past 17 at Vanier Catholic Secondary. She teaches a variety of band programs, including concert and jazz bands, vocal jazz and composition and technology.

She also has the distinct pleasure of seeing many of her students return to sign up for her adult senior jazz band.

'Anne has a way of getting the best out of all her students,' said Trevor Ratcliff, the school's principal.

'Her students become rounded in so many aspects of music, including composition, playing a variety of styles as well as studio aspects.'

Through her constant belief in the power music has to positively influence the academic performance and self-esteem of children, MusiCan said, Turner has influenced the lives of countless children by inspiring them to think big in a small community.

The MusiCan mission is to ensure that every child in Canada has access to a comprehensive music program through his or her school system.

Celebrating its 10-year anniversary in 2007, MusiCan includes Band Aid musical instrument grants, the MusiCan Teacher of the Year Award, scholarships and other music education initiatives.

To date, CARAS has donated close to $2 million to music programs involving nearly 100,000 young Canadians from coast to coast.