First Liberian youth orchestra launched

“I urge you to learn beyond your imagination and doors will be opened for you beyond your imaginations. I will do what I can to come and help you with your education,” the country's Vice-President Jewel Howard Taylor said about the Liberian Youth Orchestra.

Taylor said the school was chosen by an internationally based group. “It was good that these international partners took the move to help this school that is struggling for support.

“I can’t wait for the first performance, by God’s grace I will be there to listen to the beautiful songs. My uncle is one of the few Liberians who can play the xylophone. It looks like a tree trunk and my son Philip sings all kinds of rap songs. Sometimes he can be political, but that’s another story."

She queried the decision of some schools to send students out of school during exams.

“As we carry the system of education across the country in the next 10 years, we will begin to see strong and patriotic Liberians who will take their seats in government. Patriotism and commitment to duty should be a hallmark of performing national service and that goes in line with a zest for quality education."

The executive director and founder of Liberia Youth Orchestra, Julie McGee, said the music programme would help young people Liberian to attain music knowledge.

“The string music education will benefit students, the community and the entire nation by creating an environment of teamwork and ensuring discipline among students,” McGee said. “It will build confidence in their skills and eventually serve as teachers for other youths in Liberia."

According to a video posted online in May, the project is supposed to begin with 25 to 50 students in the first year, with McGee teaching on the ground in Liberia.