Yellowknife (June 20/03) - Weledeh's music department has a key role in the RCMP 100th Anniversary Gala this weekend.

And its all because of their soft-spoken music teacher, Rose O'Reilly.

The Newfoundland native came out of retirement to teach in Yellowknife and has transformed the music department in just one school year.

O'Reilly has led her student choir in televised Remembrance Day and Christmas concerts, masses and even produced a popular CD of songs sung by Weledeh students.

Its only natural for O'Reilly to offer her services to the police, since she has been composing rhymes and songs for family and friends all her life. If there is a special occasion, chances are O'Reilly will put a musical spin on it.

Music is her first love, she admits, even before her husband, who was responsible for bringing her to Yellowknife.

She feels music is the one commonality in our society and helps to develop students into well-rounded individuals.

O'Reilly is thrilled with her students and their response to the music program. She is also pleased that the Catholic school board recognizes its value through funding.

She loves Yellowknife and even appreciates the dry, cold winters in comparison to the blustery, sea-chilled winters on the coast of Placentia, Newfoundland.

The 100 Year Patrol Gala Ball will be held Saturday at St. Patrick High School. The celebrations will include traditional dancing, a toast to the Queen, and of course, the Weledeh choir led by O'Reilly performing her song in commemoration of Canada's policing history.