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Young artists take spotlight at Youth Concert
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Posted on Oct 17 2004
The spotlight was shining on several young artists, who took center stage Saturday night and showcased their musical talents during the first Youth Concert at the Garapan Fishing Base across the Kristo Rai Church.
The event, hosted by the Youth Affairs Office, featured various bands that took turns entertaining the crowd, but most importantly, took advantage of the venue as a vehicle for exposure to the community.
“The whole idea of the youth concert is to give the young and new artists a chance for public exposure,” said Youth Affairs director Florence Kirby. “It’s a chance for them to advertise themselves and to showcase their skills.”
Kirby said the event turned out to be a success despite beginning a couple of hours later than scheduled.
Meanwhile, 12 groups caught the eyes and ears of spectators. Each of the bands was given roughly 30 minutes to perform.
Among the groups that showcased their talents in the event were the KSS Pack of 3, Lalaso Boys, JR Serenaders, Palapala Boys, Refalawasch Band, Ace Elameto, Tropic 3 Band, Whatever Band, Sons of Harmony, Saipan Southern High School, and a group headed by Sam Joyner.
Prior to the performances, all the bands joined forces and sang the CNMI Anthem.
“This is really fun and it’s a good experience for us,” said the Lalaso Boys. The event served as the first venue the three-member band played together for.
The crowd also joined in on the occasion as they showed their support and appreciation to the artists’ efforts by dancing to their local tunes.
“Its great to see that a lot of youngsters are taking up something that is positive,” said 28-year-old Sammy Santos. “I love music, and its great to see young people providing the community with more tunes to listen and dance to.”
Aside from the Youth Affairs Office, other contributors to the Youth Concert were the Karidat House of Manhoben, Division of Youth Services under the Department of Community and Cultural Affairs, Mayor of Saipan Youth Center, Pacific Trading Co., the CNMI Youth Congress, and Rep. Ray A. Tebuteb.
