Zeda Ali
Music Educator and Steelpan Specialist
Sunnyview Middle School
About Zeda Ali
Zeda Ali is a music educator at Sunnyview Middle School in Brampton, Ontario, celebrated for her culturally responsive and student-centered approach to music education. A 2024 nominee for the MusiCounts Teacher of the Year Award, she has been nationally recognized for building inclusive music programs that reflect and celebrate the diverse identities of her students.
In her classroom, students are encouraged to bring in music that matters to them, ranging from Punjabi folk songs to hip-hop and video game soundtracks, which Zeda transcribes and incorporates into ensemble-based learning. She has also introduced instruments like steelpan drums to ensure that students see their cultures reflected in the music curriculum. Her philosophy emphasizes collaboration, identity, and accessibility, fostering a strong sense of belonging through music.
Zeda views music as a fundamental human experience and uses it to empower her students to find their voices and take pride in their heritage.
Events with Zeda Ali
Changing the Tune: Rethinking School Music Programs to Meet Student Interests and Needs
Across Canada, music educators are reshaping their music programs to better reflect the needs, interests, and identities of their students. This session brings together panelists who are moving beyond traditional...