Over 20 students have completed the third annual Comfort Zone Functional Summer Music Program.
The closing ceremony, held at the Calypso House, in Bath Estate, on Friday, was punctuated by performances from several participants.
Program Coordinator and Instructor, Ian Jackson, explained that while the program, which spanned just over two weeks, did not provide students with extensive knowledge of music, it offered a comprehensive and practical approach to the subject.
“You cannot learn music in two and a half weeks. What we have done—and we are proud of what we have done—is to bring most of the students… a first-hand look and first-hand knowledge of music,” he said, at the program’s closing ceremony.
Jackson, who has been responsible for securing most of the resources needed for the program, called for authorities to invest in the course.
“As the coordinator of this project, that I want to inform the authorities that be to invest when we approach them,” he advised.
He revealed that the government of Dominica has already granted him duty-free concession to obtain some instruments.
Cultural Project Officer in the Cultural Division, Gregory Rabess, praised the project, commenting that music instills certain skills and values in the youth.
“Learning to play music and playing music develops a range of positive attitudes, values, and skills—not just the technical knowledge of the instrument, but participating in a music program, getting involved in music helps develop a range of skills,” he elaborated.
Confidence, proficiency in academic subjects, self-motivation, attentiveness, team spirit, and cooperation were among the many disciplines mentioned.
Rabess also encouraged the students to “keep on practicing, rehearsing your instrument every day,”
The program offered classes in guitar, bass guitar, drums, song writing, keyboard, and music theory.
Fine Foods Inc. awarded prizes to two deserving students from each class.
It was announced that the program will, for the first time, be available in September, and will again be hosted at the Calypso House.
See some photos below.
Just great, to know our youth are gritting some sort of music Ed. This will pay off for the islands future. Great job.