Hope and peace: Honouring the 109th anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge
On April 9, 2026, veterans, French dignitaries, Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow, and members of the TFS community gathered to recognize the 109th anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge.
This battle remains a defining moment in Canadian history, marking the first time all four divisions of the Canadian Corps fought together from April 9–12, 1917. TFS was honoured to play a role in commemorating this legacy and the 114 soldiers from Toronto who gave their lives.
A shared moment in music
The ceremony was underscored by a beautiful musical tribute. On the steps of Old City Hall, the TFS Wind Ensemble and the military musicians of the 7th Toronto Regiment Band welcomed guests and provided a moving accompaniment throughout the programme, which included two poignant vocal performances. Reflecting on the collaboration, Conductor and Senior Music Curriculum Leader at TFS, Rupert Price shared: "In performing at this significant event, our students – the future citizens who will help make our world a better place – had an opportunity to collaborate through music, and act with empathy, responsibility and dedication. They showcased the very best of what our musicians are capable of.”
Voices of the future
The spirit of our collective "Duty to Remember" was a central theme. Gregory P. represented the Vimy Foundation and spoke to the importance of solidarity, noting that despite the world's many divisions, we remain resilient when we "choose to gather together."
The younger generation was also well-represented, as several students who recently participated in the Duty to Remember trip to France were in attendance to read poems and share their reflections. Grade 5 student Chloe C. shared "at Vimy, I saw what Canadian unity was capable of achieving. We are here today to remind ourselves that hope and peace are always achievable."
As a light rain fell over the crowd, it served as a quiet reminder of the harsh conditions faced by soldiers 109 years ago. The ceremony concluded as a testament to the fact that peace is precious. And it is a legacy that must be actively upheld by every generation.
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A shared moment in music
The ceremony was underscored by a beautiful musical tribute. On the steps of Old City Hall, the TFS Wind Ensemble and the military musicians of the 7th Toronto Regiment Band welcomed guests and provided a moving accompaniment throughout the programme, which included two poignant vocal performances. Reflecting on the collaboration, Conductor and Senior Music Curriculum Leader at TFS, Rupert Price shared: "In performing at this significant event, our students – the future citizens who will help make our world a better place – had an opportunity to collaborate through music, and act with empathy, responsibility and dedication. They showcased the very best of what our musicians are capable of.”
Voices of the future
The spirit of our collective "Duty to Remember" was a central theme. Gregory P. represented the Vimy Foundation and spoke to the importance of solidarity, noting that despite the world's many divisions, we remain resilient when we "choose to gather together."
The younger generation was also well-represented, as several students who recently participated in the Duty to Remember trip to France were in attendance to read poems and share their reflections. Grade 5 student Chloe C. shared "at Vimy, I saw what Canadian unity was capable of achieving. We are here today to remind ourselves that hope and peace are always achievable."
As a light rain fell over the crowd, it served as a quiet reminder of the harsh conditions faced by soldiers 109 years ago. The ceremony concluded as a testament to the fact that peace is precious. And it is a legacy that must be actively upheld by every generation.
