People of all ages, get ready for grand, new and interactive music experiences. The National Institute of Arts (NIA) with the help of funding from the Nationaal Rampenfonds – the Dutch Disaster Fund – is launching its new project called “Music Brings People Together”.
Why would the disaster fund get involved in music? Because recovery following last year’s disastrous hurricane season is not only about reconstruction, Project Director Pieter Lucas told The Weekender. This social project, as its name describes, aims to bring people together. Music sparks joy for both the creator and the listener. Music is therapeutic.
The project, set to last for 15 months, has been designed to include all age groups, all over St. Maarten, for free.
It consists of three components: Creating a platform for a youth orchestra, a series of free musical demonstrations and concerts in the various neighbourhoods, and performances by both of these groups for senior citizens, dementia and Alzheimer's patients. The first classes and performances are set to start mid-November.
Under the direction of Neville James, the youth orchestra will bring together youngsters ages eight to 18 with a love and knack for music. Through 72 scholarships, the music students will be able to learn the craft under the guidance of well-trained teachers and musicians, for free.
The orchestra will utilise new, state of the art instruments. Some types will be familiar, but most will be a brand new experience – instruments that even most adults on the island do not personally have access to, including cellos, French horns, oboes, and violins.
The group will demonstrate their skill by performing to the general public as a formal ensemble.
With Connis Vanterpool at the helm, the free neighbourhood band concerts and demonstrations will bring music, insight and entertainment to any and every one interested, in public locations, such as schools, community centres and basketball courts, all across St. Maarten.
It will also bring local musicians to the limelight and provide them a source of income, now more importantly with many hotels no longer able to host them.
The musicians will also give live demonstrations and explain the capabilities, history and relevance of various instruments.
You will be welcome to join in the live jam sessions by singing, dancing, or playing an instrument. The concerts will also serve to attract new students to the youth orchestra.
Both young and adult musicians will also perform for senior citizens and Dementia/Alzheimer's patients, a beautiful way to come full circle and bring all the age groups together through music.
For these listeners in particular, music has proven and powerful benefits. It can light up emotional memories, help reduce anxiety, agitation and depression, and improve behavioural issues. Music can provide a way to connect, even after verbal communication becomes difficult in the late stages of disease.
Look out for NIA’s schedule and come out to learn, connect, relax and revive.
