Amazônia Jazz Band begins series of educational concerts with performance at Santo Afonso School
Project brings instrumental music to students and marks the resumption of AJB's calendar in the second semester
The Government of Pará began, this Thursday (7), the first educational presentation of the Amazônia Jazz Band (AJB) at a state public school. The concert was held at the Santo Afonso State Elementary School, located in the Telégrafo neighborhood of Belém, and brought together students, teachers, and families for a show of music and knowledge.
The action is promoted through the State Department of Culture (Secult), in partnership with the State Department of Education (Seduc), Theatro da Paz, and the Pará Academy of Music (APM). It also has master sponsorship from the Vale Cultural Institute, via the Federal Law of Incentive to Culture.
Accessible culture in public schools
With the aim of expanding access to culture and promoting the democratization of instrumental music, the concert at Santo Afonso School marks the beginning of a new phase in AJB's calendar, which now includes performances in public school units.
"It is very important to bring culture to schools. The Amazônia Jazz Band has been waiting for this moment and we are very happy. It is an educational show, where I explain the instruments, how they work, and the difference of AJB compared to other big bands in the world," said conductor Eduardo Lima, the band's principal conductor.
During the show, the musicians presented an eclectic repertoire that included classics of Pará and Brazilian music. The performance also featured a special appearance by singer Júlia Passos, who performed songs by the Pará artist Dona Onete.
Musical experience transforms the school environment
For the students of Santo Afonso School, the experience was remarkable. "It's the first time I've watched and I thought it was very cool because there were several songs I knew and I could interact. I've always wanted to see something like this at school," said Sophie Julieta, a 7th-grade student.
The school had already started with the students the theoretical study of instrumental music in the classroom, and the concert represented the connection between theory and practice.
"These are students who do not have direct contact with instrumental music, so having the opportunity to study it and then watch the Amazônia Jazz Band is the closing of a training cycle," explained Máximo Rogério, the director of the unit.
According to the manager, the action helps to awaken new interests and talents among young people. "Today, many students said they want to learn to play an instrument. It is very gratifying to see the sparkle in their eyes while watching AJB. This is access to culture and social transformation through art," he concluded.
Text: Lorena Saraiva
