Joys of Park parade
It was another wonderful Christmas morning in Queen’s Park where a large crowd of Barbadians and visitors turned out to enjoy the annual concert by the Band of the Barbados Police Service.
The age-old tradition, a highlight of the Christmas celebrations, continues to attract new patrons and yesterday was no exception, with several visitors saying they were advised a visit to the Park on Christmas morning was a must.
Mainly British and Canadian, out among the large number park-goers and took every photo op.
When the Police Band notes on the stroke of 7 a. a few patrons standing around However, it did not take long numbers swelled, with the out front to ensure they did while others took up position walkways leading to the bandstand. Under the baton of the Senior Superintendent Andrew band treated patrons to aCanadian, they stood number of exquisitelydressed took advantage of Band sounded its first a.m., there were just around the bandstand. long before those the regulars standing did not miss a beat, position on the lawn and bandstand. the director of music, Andrew Lynch, the a variety of music on a programme lasting for one and a half hours, leaving people asking for more as it ended.
Band members not only displayed their instrumental prowess but also their vocal competency, with officers such as Constables Maughn, Weekes, Bend and Roach taking to the microphone to belt out Christmas favourites, many arranged by present and former members of the band.
Even the director of music temporarily set aside his baton to join the crooners, stepping into the shoes of his late predecessor Keith Ellis, to thrill the audience with his own rendition of the Christmas standard You’re All I want for Christmas.
It is a crowd favourite which Ellis, as director, could not end the annual concert without singing for a park audience pressing him to do so.
Guest artiste Llettesha Sylvester-Charles blew the audience away with her renditions of The First Noel and O Holy Night, her powerful voice sending notes soaring high over the Park, while Biggie Irie raised the tempo with Drummer Boy, and Gather The Children, sung to a distinct Caribbean beat. By the time the band launched into Keith Ellis’ arrangement of The Most Honourable Stedson Red Plastic Bag Wilshire’s Bajan Christmas hit Maizie, the line dancers were in full step showing off their colourful moves to flashing cameras.
For President The Most Honourable Jeffrey Bostic, who made a surprise appearance, it was his first Christmas morning in the Park since taking office.
Remarking on what a “wonderful show” it was, he told the DAILY NATION he intended to make it part of his annual Christmas calendar.
His arrival caused an excited stir and several people – locals and visitors – eagerly rushed forward to be greeted by him as he mingled, accompanied by his daughters Teara and Akeima. (GC)
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