AFTER some months of training, eleven young aspiring musicians graduated from the National School of Music, in a ceremony held last Wednesday evening in the auditorium of the school on Brickdam, Georgetown. Grades gained were 100 percent pass rate and 91 percent distinction at the examination of the Royal School of Music in London.
All the students were understandably very excited about their achievements, and related that it is only the beginning of a journey for them to work towards a music career.
The Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr Frank Anthony, was very pleased with the results, and committed to developing this school, as he aired his desire for Guyana’s musical talents to be heard internationally.
The National School of Music was opened in November 2011, and classes officially began on March 5, 2012.
The minister related that opening of this institution was met with a lot of skeptical remarks regarding whether or not the school would be a success.
He expressed how pleased he was to see that, within such a short period of time, the students have figuratively put their best foot forward and brought the school recognition with their excellent grades.
Minister Anthony emphasised that the ministry is willing to improve the music school by bringing in more teachers, both local and from overseas. He added that some Japanese musicians will join the school for a six- month period.
Principal of the institution, Mr. Cecil Bovell, indicated that the school is hoping to acquire a 90-piece steel pan orchestra, and that he has high hopes and expectations from the students who have graduated, as well as those who will be joining the school in the new term.
The gathering was treated to various musical renditions by the graduates as well as the younger students, and the certificates and trophies were presented to the students by Dr. Anthony.
The top students of this first batch are: Jamal Johnson, Grade One, who achieved 98%; and Tenecia De Freitas, who achieved 92%.
At Grade Two, Galecia Edwards achieved 98% and was adjudged the best overall performer.