National Marching Band Launched

L-R Mr. Peter White, HE Gov Andrew Pearce, Mr Colin Owen, Premier Donaldson Romeo, Mr. Brian Hosefros, Mr. Herman Francis and Mr. McCloyd White

Davy Hill, Montserrat, January 17, 2019 – The Davy Hill Community Centre was buzzing with excitement as the Royal Montserrat Defense Force (RMDF) launched the National Marching Band Initiative.

In a ceremony held earlier this afternoon Governor Andrew Pearce, along with Premier Donaldson Romeo and the Financial Secretary Colin Owen unveiled the instruments and invited persons interested to join the band.

Mr. Peter White, standing in for Major Alvin Ryan stated that the initiative has been ‘funded with assistance from the Financial Secretary and the Centre is being funded by the Governor’s Office.’

The idea is to bring together members of the Montserrat Cadet Corps, Royal Montserrat Police Force and the community at large to form this National Band. The plan is not only to play for marches but concerts and other events. They are looking to attract young people not only within the Davy Hill but the island at large.

Also, on hand were the three volunteer music teachers, Mr. Herman Francis, Mr. McCloyd White and Mr. Brian Hosefros, who were all excited at what this could mean for Montserrat.

According to McCloyd, who said he is a product of this type of band, “… This is a second initiative …we had about 30 members strong in the Defense Force Band at that time… I am feeling really excited and hope good things will come of it.”

At the end, persons were encouraged to sign up and state what instruments they were interested in learning.