Ambergris Caye's first ever music summer camp commenced on Monday, July 22nd. Over 60 registered children aged 5-18 will have the unique opportunity to learn the vibrant art of music. The program is scheduled to run until August 9th and takes place at the San Pedro High School from Monday to Friday.

Training the children is Cuban music teacher Carlos Perrote. Perrote is well educated in the world of music, having played in the National Symphony Orchestra of Cuba, and even touring Germany, France and Italy. Since 1991, Carlos Perrote has resided in Belize, where he has produced two albums, worked as a music teacher at the National Institute of Creative Arts, and was even musical director for the late Andy Palacio and the Garifuna Collective. Perrote has hosted similar music camps in Orange Walk Town and Belize City.

More than 100 percussion instruments were shipped to San Pedro Town for this program. Children will learn the skill of playing a variety of instruments that include percussion, Garifuna drums, steel pan, piano and guitar throughout the summer program. Along with learning to play musical instruments, the children will also be taking part in vocal lessons and learn rhythm skills.

Music camp organizer Elisabeth Hobarth says that this program is more than just an alternative for children summer activities, it is a chance to bring culture into the lives of the youth of San Pedro. "This is a great experience for all the children. They will get to learn the art of music while having fun and staying safe," said Hobarth. "We have also invited six children of low income families to join the Music Summer Camp free of cost with the help of our sponsors. It is our small way to give back to the community."

On Friday, August 9th all students will perform together as a Steel Band at 10AM at the Angel Nunez Auditorium. Entrance is free and parents and friends are invited to come and see the skills the children have learned in their short time under the direction of Maestro Carlos Perrote.

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