Manitoba has declared May as Music Month, a great celebration of something that brings so many together.

"Music plays a significant role in our schools, enriches the lives of our students, and contributes to the well-being of all Manitobans," said Ian Wishart, Education and Training Minister, on Tuesday.

Ross Brownlee knows that role well. The band director at Westgate Mennonite Collegiate, Brownlee says that music is unique in its approach to making students better.

"It's not an instant gratification type of thing," Brownlee says. "The process of making music at a higher level than you can do right now is one of patience and work ethic."

Students, he says, look back at where they started and glow with pride when they realize what they have just done. That community-focused approach that music often takes is important, and something not necessarily present in other aspects of school life.

"That's something that transcends most of our academic courses," Brownlee observed.

Music is often present at community events, including events like Jets games and the Whiteout Party. Brownlee says that is intentional, as it can grow the community. Plus, unlike sports games, no one has to lose.

"Unlike the sports teams, if you've made one iota of progress, you're a winner, and no one has to lose," Brownlee smiled.

For Westgate, music has another meaning as well, which is laid out in worship. The choirs and bands join together around seven times a year to share worship with partnering churches. Brownlee says it's a great way to connect.

"This is the way that we as a school are able to be physically and mentally present with our (supporting) churches," he said. "We find that through music."

Music Month began in 2004. The Manitoba Legislative Building will host a performance every Monday in May, featuring 20 schools from across Manitoba.