Senior citizens from Jubileum, Jabulani and Protea old age homes were dancing and singing to the rhythm and harmony of the SA Army Band, while others were seen crying as they appreciated and took in the music rendered by the band.
The SA Army Band Western Cape as well as the Nelson Mandela Artillery Pipes and Drum Band performed at Jubileum, Jabulani and Protea old age homes in Goodwood combined.
This was in aid of Nelson Mandela Day.
Also to give back to the community and uplift the spirit of the senior citizens, and for entertainment.
The band did not perform for the past two years as a result of the hard lockdown and covid regulations.
Music was ‘heaven-sent’
This brass band had just landed from Langebaan and right after the show had to make their way to De Aar, not seeing their families in months.
“People often think of brass bands as only doing the parade, but it is not the case,” Director of Music SA Army Band Western Cape Major Vernon Michels said.
The senior citizens described the music as heaven-sent, one lady said she cried during the display and appreciated that the army took time out to entertain them.
Warrant Officer class 2 (WO2) Andrew Imrie of Nelson Mandela Artillery Pipes and drum band also took part in the performance.
The audience was captivated by the performance.
Through their superb musicianship, the band displayed the professional standards of the SA Army in every aspect of its performance.
They played a range of songs including songs specifically composed for the occasion.
They entertained the elderly with music such as “Caravan” and “Amazing Grace”, and they showed the versatility of music from artists such as Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, Freshly Ground and so much more.
Major Paul Braaf described them as one of the best army bands in Africa.
