ENSEMBLE NABANGA
Initiative of the Lycée Français
JMG le Clézio, Port Vila
VANUATU'S FIRST YOUTH ORCHESTRA
OUR VISION
Striving for excellence
The Nabanga Ensemble is a school program that provides over 50 ni-Vanuatu children the opportunity to play a musical instrument free of charge. The program is an initiatve if the Lycée Français Le Clézio in Port Vila and instruction in several different instruments is provided by Barbara Idieder.
How is the Ensemble funded?
Tuition costs for group classes are supported by the Lycée Français. For all other costs (instruments, replacement strings, reeds etc, repairs and touring expenses) funds are raised through various activities and performances. Donations are always welcome.
What are the values of the Ensemble?
Students who participate in the Nabanga program are encouraged to aim for personal excellence not only in their music studies but more broadly in all areas of their life. The study of music is associated with several cognitive and social benefits.
Goals
Since it's inception in 2017, the Nabanga Ensemble has grown from 12 to over 50 students, many from disadvantaged backrounds. Access to quality instrumental music education is sadly beyond the reach of most ni-Vanuatu families and the Nabanga program endeavours to address this situation. It is hoped that in the future the program may expand to other schools, as senior students from the Lycée le Clézio become experienced enough to assist the principal teacher.
"Music produces a kind of pleasure which human nature cannot do without." Confucius
Where do the students learn and perform?
Students in the Nabanga program benefit from two hours of group tuition at school each week over the lunchtimes and often older, more experienced students volunteer to mentor younger ones. Regular concerts are organised during the year for parents and the senior students are engaged regularly in ceremonies for embassies, government summits, festivals and special events.
Ensemble Nabanga in numbers
50
Ni-Vanuatu children learning free of charge
1
principal teacher
5
different ensembles
12
choice of instruments to play
Repertoire of the groups
The repertoire of the groups is varied. The senior string students perform traditional songs of Vanuatu especially arranged for the ensemble. All groups peform original pieces and popular styles. All national anthems of the pacific nations are available upon request. The string quartet prepares romantic songs for weddings.
senior strings 2023
Opening International Beach Volley >Tournament
Performance Australin High Commission for His Excellency Mr David Hurley, Australia's Governor General
14 July performance
French Ambassador to Vanuatu and Solomon. Islands, Mr. Jean-Baptiste Jeangène Vilmer
On tour in Erakor village
View Gallery
The Ensemble Nabanga program is a product of hard work, dedication and joy.
