Marine Corps Band New Orleans Connects with Local Children through Music

PONCE , PUERTO RICO

10.25.2016

Story by Sgt. Sara Graham 

Marine Forces Reserve (MARFORRES)

Members of Marine Corps Band New Orleans traveled to Ponce, Puerto Rico on Oct. 17, 2016, to celebrate the Marine Forces Reserve Centennial at the Ponce La Perla Theater, where they had the opportunity to provide music classes to local children.

The Marines demonstrated to the students the capabilities of the different band sections and instruments. Next, they played traditional latin music, like “Guataca City” by Paquito D’Rivera, and then transitioned to New Orleans-style jazz. Afterward, the band gave a sneak peek at the centennial concert which uses images from the past 100 years mixed with specific pieces of music, to help the students learn about associating music and visuals. Through music, the performance explained the contributions the Marine Corps Reserve has given to its nation over the course of its existence. Finally, the floor was opened for the children to ask questions about the Marine Corps.

“Some of [the students] had very specific questions about the Marine Corps, about the music program, and one young man was looking for a recruiter which was really great. As musicians we are stewards of the Marine Corps and we are always looking at trying to aid the recruiting effort,” said Staff Sgt. Mark A. Pellon, a saxophone player with Marine Corps Band New Orleans.

Pellon added that a deep emphasis is placed on the festive and life-like music in the Puerto Rican culture. Exposing children to the music culture at a young age is common.

Master Sgt. Joel Cortes, Band Master for the Marine Corps Band New Orleans, and a native of Puerto Rico said, “Puerto Rican culture has charter schools. If children want to be musicians they have to go through a process of after-school programs to get in to the conservatory,” one of the highly competitive musical universities on the island.

Corporal Samuel Rivas, also a native of Puerto Rico and musician with the band, added that this interaction was a special opportunity for the children of Ponce and the community. When growing up, the children don’t see a lot of Marines or know a lot about the Marine Corps. This unique chance to travel to Puerto Rico allowed the band to show what the Marine Corps is and what options a military career may offer.

“I feel honored that the Marine Corps had this opportunity to come over here and help out the children of Puerto Rico,” said Rivas. “It was a great experience.”

Marine Corps Band New Orleans finished out the day in Ponce by performing the Centennial concert for the community, showcasing the Marine Corps Reserve’s contribution over the last 100 years.

• Date Taken: 10.25.2016
• Date Posted: 10.25.2016 21:28
• Story ID: 212921
• Location: PONCE , PR