A total of 38 Royal Bahamas Defence Force Rangers have been empowered with musical talents after successfully completing the 3rd Annual Rangers Band Camp on June 29, 2018.
This was the culmination of a 2-week program where participants between the ages of 12 and 18 years volunteered themselves to take part in an activity that will provide them with an extra skill that will better prepare them for life.
The young musicians were taught by Defence Force music instructors within the Rangers program, some of whom were former members of the Defence Force Band. The workshop comprised both theory and practical lessons. Rangers were also taught how to play various instruments– woodwind, brass and percussion.
Bringing remarks at the brief ceremony was Commander Defence Force, Commodore Tellis Bethel, who lauded the Rangers Director, supervisors and instructors for their hard work, and the future musicians for taking a bold step in developing skills that can benefit them in the future.
“A number of you joined this camp not knowing how to read music or play an instrument, said Commodore Bethel”. Your persistence in wanting to learn is evident as you played so skillfully today, and we applaud you.
Conducted at the R. M. Bailey Senior High School, the class consisted of Rangers from approximately 20 junior and senior high schools in the country, including schools in Abaco and North Eleuthera.
Ranger Cadet Davaughn Major, a student of Patrick J. Bethel High School in Abaco, was appointed, Drum Major of the Rangers Band.
Also in attendance were Mr. Collin Johnson, Principal of R. M. Bailey Senior High School, along with the school’s Vice Principal Mrs. Shari Russell, and Senior Mistress Mrs. Sheralyn Murphy. Numerous parents, relatives and friends were also on hand to encourage the young Rangers.
Led by Petty Officer David Turner, the Rangers Band provided several stellar selections during the ceremony. They performed the hit song “My Heart Will Go On” by Celine Dion, and also The Bahamas’ National Anthem.
The Rangers music students were presented with certificates of participation from Commodore Bethel, and look forward to enhancing the world of music.
(RBDF Photos by Marine Seaman Kyle Smith)
