Free concerts continue at NALIS

The midday series features three National Performing Arts Entities which will provide the public with free concerts for three weeks – the National Steel Symphony Orchestra (NSSO), the National Philharmonic Orchestra and the National Theatre Arts Company.

NSSO which is celebrating its tenth anniversary this year, opened the series with 21 players and conductor Akua Leith.

The musicians, all professionals performed to the delight of their audience which included the Minister of Culture Dr Nyan Gadsby-Dolly and several ministry officials, as well as pannist, arranger Mia Gormandy who was sitting in the front row taking in the action.

The NSSO played Sparrow’s Slave, Ray Holman’s Waltz for Iris, Len “Boogsie” Sharpe’s Baby Ashley, Zequinha de Abreu’s Tico Tico, the Eagles’ Hotel California, Olatunji’s Ola, Keegan Taylor and Kit Israel, MM and Bunji Garlin’s Buss Head and the Ultimate Rejects’ Full Extreme.

The pick of the set was “Boogsie’s” Baby Ashley which he composed for his daughter when she was born 14 years ago.

It was arranged for NSSO by Professor Liam Teague. Some onlookers could not help but dance to the sweet sounds of the national instrument.

NSSO continued the series last Thursday and the National Philharmonic Orchestra will take centre stage on July 11 and 13 while the National Theatre Arts Co will close off the series on July 18 and 20.

The concept of the series is geared towards exposing a new generation to the performing arts with a view of them taking an active role and making it a career. The three professional entities are constantly giving back to the community through music and theatre.

The 45-minutes concerts can also act as a stress relief for office workers in the downtown area and they are invited to bring their lunch and come to NALIS.

Hence the name Brown Bag Series.