By Ibrahim S. Bangura
Freetown, Sierra Leone – May 28, 2025 – The Ballanta Academy of Music and Performing Arts (BAMPA) delivered an unforgettable night of musical brilliance as it hosted its much-anticipated Brass Wind Concert. Held at the academy’s auditorium, the event celebrated cross-cultural collaboration, artistic growth, and Sierra Leone’s flourishing brass music tradition.
The concert was the culmination of weeks of training and mentorship, featuring performances by the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) Band and the pioneering Ballanta Female Brass Ensemble. Under the artistic direction of visiting German music expert, Stephan Flore, both groups demonstrated remarkable skill and musical depth.
An Evening of Musical Excellence
The auditorium was filled with an enthusiastic audience—students, educators, military officials, and music lovers—who punctuated each performance with applause and admiration.
Opening the event, BAMPA’s Acting Principal, Mrs. Bobson-Kamara, highlighted the significance of the evening, stating:
“What we are going to witness is more than a musical performance—it is a reflection of international collaboration, artistic growth, and the relentless pursuit of excellence that defines our community here at BAMPA.”
Diverse Repertoire and Artistic Influence
Guiding the evening’s program, Major Alie Vengar, Band Master of the RSLAF, presented a dynamic repertoire, blending global classics and African rhythms. The setlist included:
– John Lennon’s Imagine
– Songs of Africa, arranged by Johnny Vinicius
– Adele’s Skyfall
– Miriam Makeba’s Pata Pata
Each piece reinforced the event’s theme of unity through music, transcending language and cultural barriers.
Band Director Lt. Col. Isaac Kamara praised Stephan Flore’s leadership, noting that the German conductor’s blend of discipline and inspiration had left a lasting impact on the performers.
Empowering Female Musicians
A standout moment came when Doris Tenneh Kargbo of the Ballanta Female Brass Ensemble expressed heartfelt appreciation for Flore’s mentorship: “The weeks we spent with Mr. Flore were unforgettable. His passion and patience deepened our love for music and brought out the best in us.”
The Ballanta Female Brass Ensemble, initiated by Musa Sam Ganda, is a testament to BAMPA’s commitment to nurturing female musicians and expanding Sierra Leone’s classical and brass music traditions.
A Cultural Milestone
As the final notes faded, the standing ovation confirmed the event’s success, reinforcing music’s power to unite communities across borders.
With events like the Brass Wind Concert, BAMPA continues to shape Sierra Leone’s musical landscape, fostering innovation, collaboration, and artistic excellence.