Thanks to Creative Kids, Taegen and Keegan Isaac were able to take violin lessons as children. Both credit those lessons as “instrumental” in creating opportunities for growth and new connections, which set them on a successful path forward.

Looking back, Keegan, now a music education student at the University of Saskatchewan, says, “I don’t think I would be where I am today without the Creative Kids funding that I received. Much of my appreciation for music was engrained in me at an early age. Without Creative Kids I wouldn’t have been able to start music lessons at the age of seven.”

As a first year medical student at the University of Saskatchewan, Taegen says practicing the violin as a youth was the reason he developed the skills of discipline, persistence and diligence, which contributed to strong study habits, enhancing his ability to learn. “I learned, especially practicing every day, how to sit down and devote a lot of attention to something that needs fine detail and time,” he says.

Today, the Isaac brothers are well-known in the North Battleford area. They grew up near the Village of Meota, performing in senior’s homes and long-term care facilities. In 2022, Keegan, now a singer, songwriter, arranger and multi- instrumentalist, released his first album, Wonder of Grace. Although Taegen is primarily focused on his studies, he still performs with his brother in the Itsy Bitsy Big Band playing upright bass. Keegan says the band is a passion project and “I want to foster more of a love for big band music in Saskatchewan”.

Both brothers are thankful for the Creative Kids support that enabled them to take private violin lessons with Erin Foreman, starting in 2012 when Keegan was seven and Taegen was 11. Those lessons led to a deep appreciation and love of music, which gave them many opportunities they wouldn’t have had otherwise.

For Taegen the opportunities to perform were very important, in not only forming strong bonds to the community he’s from, but in influencing his career path. “Performing was great because they [community members] were willing to listen to us when we were really bad. But it also developed my sense of empathy towards the elderly, which has driven some of my decisions as to where my career will go and where I plan to practice once I become a doctor.”

Keegan is also thankful for the opportunities he gained. “Music has led to some of my greatest friendships. As well as, given me the opportunity to perform with people more advanced than me.” He goes on to say, “In younger grades, I was allowed the chance to work with senior bands, which was such a great learning experience and helped me improve incredibly.” Now with the Saskatoon Jazz Orchestra, Keegan is playing the trombone, singing and arranging the music for its performances.

He adds music and art are more important now than ever for children and youth, “It helps develop a personal sense of individuality. It can help them discover their identity and help them express themselves.”

When people donate to Creative Kids they are giving more than they realize, claims Taegen. “It’s more than just the children that you’re helping. You’re helping the whole family,” he says. “By donating, you’re helping improve a child’s life. You’re helping improve a family’s economic ability. You’re investing in the future, for example, me, a person who will take care of you in your old age as a doctor.”