musical ensembles. Junior Band Junior Strings Ensemble Symphonic Band Senior Strings Ensemble Marching Band Stage Band Symphony Orchestra Chamber Strings Ensemble Choral Ensemble Men's Chorus Chamber Choir Concert Band The ensembles participate in various musical events and competitions, including the Kiwanis Music Festival, the Ontario Vocal Festival, the Ontario Strings Association Music Festival, and the Contemporary Music Showcase. The school puts on two major concerts each year. Fall Fare is in December and is a one night concert, while Maytime Melodies, an annual tradition dating back to 1946, is spread out over two nights. Students taking a music class are allowed to participate in or try out for any of these musical ensembles, provided they participate in the musical ensemble associated with their music class. In addition, the music department partners with the visual art department each year to host Soda Pop Shop, a one night showcase of student performers and artwork. North Toronto is the only high school in the GTA with a performance Marching Band. The band practices weekly before school from September to November to prepare for its annual appearance in the Toronto and Markham Santa Claus Parades. Awards The School gives out yearly awards to recognize the best students in sports, academics, music, drama, and citizenship. Some notable awards include the following: Sifton Trophy for School Citizenship Kerr Trophy for Student Leadership R.R.H. (Bud) Page Valedictory Prize Governor General's Academic Medal Sakhawalkar-Bhatt Citizenship Award John Taylor Award Senator Keith Davey Award In its first year in a Gold LEED Facility, North Toronto CI attained the EcoSchools Gold Certification. In 2018, the school was upgraded to EcoSchools Platinum Certification. Notable alumni Mike Hoecht, Canadian-born American football defensive tackle for the Los Angeles Rams of the National Football League. Malin Åkerman, Hollywood actress, attended NTCI during the mid-1990s. Christie Blatchford, graduated 1970, newspaper columnist for The National Post. Dinah Christie, singer, comedian, and Canadian television personality. Performed stage revues with Tom Kneebone. Graduated 1961. Joe Cressy, Canadian politician, graduated 2003. David Cronenberg, filmmaker, graduated with an average of 80% or higher (Ontario Scholar Status). Jim Cuddy, member of Blue Rodeo, also member of the NTCI football team. Keith Davey, member, Order of Canada, former Canadian Football League (CFL) commissioner, and former Canadian Senator. Tom Europe, CFL player (also attended Northern Secondary School). Megan Follows, graduated 1986, actress best known for her title role in Anne of Green Gables.