20 graduates of the 3rd Annual Comfort Zone Functional Summer Music Program recognized at Calypso House

​Over 20 graduates of the 3rd Annual Comfort Zone Functional Summer Music Program, were recognized at a closing ceremony held at the ‘Calypso House’ at bath Estate on Friday. The ceremony was graced by performances from several participants.
 
Program Coordinator and Instructor Ian Jackson explained that although the program took place over a two-week period, it did not provide students with extensive knowledge of music; however, it offered a comprehensive and practical approach to the subject.
 
Jackson said we are proud that we were able to give most of the students a first-hand look, and first-hand knowledge of music”. Jackson called for the authorities to invest in the program. He said, “As the coordinator of this project, I want to ask the authorities to invest in the effort when we approach them”. He further noted that the government of Dominica granted duty-free concession to obtain some instruments.
 
Meanwhile, Cultural Division Project Officer Gregory Rabess, praised the project, saying, 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, and getting involved in music helps develop a range of skills”.
 
He said Confidence, proficiency in academic subjects, self-motivation, attentiveness, team spirit, and cooperation, were among the many disciplines involved. Rabess encouraged the students to keep on practicing, rehearsing on their 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. Organizers said the program will, for the first time, be available in September, and will again be hosted at the ‘Calypso House’ in Bath Estate.