COFONA band of New Amsterdam which has been engaged in activities not only in the township of New Amsterdam but the entire country honoured.
The band was formed out of a need for accompanying music at parades in the town when the police were unavailable. It is the brainchild of Dr Maurice Lewis.
The band came into being in 2011. The band once took an 85-member orchestra to play at the national programme for the country’s independence celebrations
In a collaborative effort between the New Amsterdam Municipality and United Bridge Builders Mission of the USA reconised the contributions made by members of the programme towards the town’s development.
During a recognisation ceremony held at the Town Hall recently, which formed part of the Town Day celebrations in observance of the town’s 132 anniversary as a Municipality, CEO and Founder of United Bridge Builders Mission Inc, Bonita Montaque, called on the band members to pride themselves noting that as has already happened where some band members were invited to North America to showcase their skills, the band as a unit will be moving places.
“As young musicians, I don’t want you to go away after today that you are a part of a band that goes nowhere. You will now be recognised as the band of the town and beyond. When we say beyond, we are speaking internationally.”
She said it order for this to be realized, band members will have to be disciplined and consistent.
Referred to as a programme where participants learn to read music and play instruments also focuses on the molding of participants.
“And while you play the instruments, understand that academics and school are equally important. Focus on keeping your grades up and persons will see you and recognise your work and efforts and they will open doors for you and create opportunities for you to excel,” she added.
Meanwhile, New Amsterdam’s Mayor Wainwright McIntosh said the band has made residents of the town proud, noting that each member would have made a lasting impact on the town.
He cautioned them to keep learning and remain in school and also to use their talent to make a difference.
Under the programme, participants and provided to sit examinations in the musical field from reputable schools.
Only recently at the Guyana Music Teachers ceremony, members of the band took away several top awards.
Mentor of the programme Marcy Jackman explained that under the programme, members are provided with academic after-school tuition (lessons) where needed, and through the programme band members have their school exam fees paid. (G4)
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