Abu Dhabi: The Royal Institute of Music & Arts, Abu Dhabi, popularly known as Royal Music, celebrated its 20th anniversary on Thursday, November 16, at the British School Al Khubairat Auditorium. The Institute’s students performed various disciplines of music in the concert on the occasion.
The event was kick-started with the UAE’s national anthem after a welcome note by the compere Rupert Vaz, who said, “The credit of enjoying music of such high caliber in the UAE goes to the authorities and the government, who have provided ample facilities and freedom to practice and perform music from various cultures and nationalities.” As a gesture of respect for the ‘Year of Tolerance’, the song “Make me a channel of your peace” was sung by the students of the music academy as a universal prayer on behalf of all present at the event. People from various nationalities, religions, beliefs and cultures came to witness the gala event.
Coordinators from Trinity College London, Falguni Mehta and Elshan were the guests of honour.
An instrumental rendition of the legendary song ‘Hotel California’ commenced the concert, which was followed by many bands, duet, piano, guitar, violin ensembles. The song “This is me” was performed by about 40 students to perfection, amid loud applause. The vocal rendition of a medley of Walt Disney title tracks was sung with absolute perfection by the students. The song “Thank You for the Music” was the grand finale of the concert and was performed by the teachers. It was welcome by one and all with a standing ovation.
All the 200 plus students present, rushed to the stage in a flash-mob and joined their teachers. It was a sight which will not be forgotten for a very long time.
Flavia Sera, Managing Director of the Institute, read out the report of Royal Music’s growth since its inception in 1999. Presently, there are about 400 students being trained in music and being prepared for the examinations conducted by the Trinity College’s examiners. The instruments taught here are piano, violin, guitar, keyboard and drums. Students are also trained in vocals. The institute is affiliated to Trinity College London and ABRSM, London and follows the structured music education of international standards.
On the occasion, the messages sent by Trinity College’s manager, Tyler Smith and the ex-students from various parts of the world were displayed on the LED screen at regular intervals.
Students who completed the 8th Grade (the highest grade in the curriculum) were felicitated with a certificate and medal. The current students who obtained distinction with extraordinary marks in ‘Classical’ and ‘Rock & Pop’ were also honored. The teachers of the institute were also honored with certificates and mementos for their hard work and dedication.
Speaking to the audience, Flavia Sera said, “It is our ambition to distinguish our institution nationally, as one of the premier organizations for music instruction and coaching to the aspiring young talented children of different ages and levels, from beginners to advanced, that will lead them towards a lifetime of joyful music-making. Our motto is to ‘Devote Time, Promote Talent’. Come, let us make this world a better place, through our music!”
Principal of St. Joseph’s School, Abu Dhabi, Sr. Carmen and many well-known personalities from various industries and business houses were also present.
Royal Music was established in May of 1999 in Abu Dhabi with the objective of imparting good music education to the young and aspiring children. Today, the Institute has transformed itself into a professional institute which enjoys the reputation of being the leading music institute in Abu Dhabi. This school has, for the last 20 years, explored, molded and nurtured thousands of talented students in their quest for music excellence. It is staffed by a well-qualified and dedicated team of certified and professional music teachers, each of them backed by a rich source of teaching experience in their respective disciplines.
Royal Institute of Music and arts is a part of the Broadway Events and production Group.
Report by Ronald D’Souza
