Students and officials celebrate new singing initiative at Skolen Ved Bülowsvej in Frederiksberg

On the first day of the school year, 350 students and their parents at Skolen Ved Bülowsvej in Frederiksberg gather in the multi-purpose hall for the traditional morning song. This daily event has been a staple for over 12 years, taking place every morning at 8:00 AM.

This particular morning is noteworthy, as Culture Minister Jakob Engel Schmidt and renowned music conductor Philip Faber join in the singing. Their presence marks the launch of a new 10 million kroner initiative aimed at supporting morning singing in schools across Denmark.

The initiative includes a fund that schools can apply for voluntarily, along with a morning choir led by Philip Faber. Schools interested in introducing or enhancing existing morning singing programs can apply for funds to secure necessary instruments and provide professional development for teachers and staff involved in the singing.

Minister Engel Schmidt highlights that morning singing fosters joy and community, providing students with a deeper understanding of Danish musical heritage. He emphasizes that in an age dominated by screens, participating in a collective activity like singing offers a unique experience.

The event features a large screen displaying the lyrics to “Danmark Gennem Tusind År,” while Crystal Friis and Mona Sahsah from third grade prepare to lead the singing. Principal Lars Westh notes that this practice helps students feel part of something bigger than themselves, enhancing their readiness to learn.

All schools in Denmark can apply for funds from the new initiative starting September 1, with hopes of encouraging more collective singing across the country. The initiative also includes the formation of a morning choir, comprised of professional musicians committed to visiting schools to inspire and support morning singing activities.