Appeal from Ecuador to Replace Stolen Brass Instruments
On 20 July 2006, The Brass Band of Ecuador (Quito) was the victim of a terrible theft of more than $20,000 in instruments, computers, and equipment. The eleven instruments stolen were acquired after a long period of appeal for support. They came from Switzerland, Germany, and the United States of America with much effort on the part of private individuals, organizations, and embassies over the last six years. The Brass Band requests any possible help in acquiring replacement brass and percussion instruments so that this project, which has so greatly benefited the Quito community, may continue to operate.
The fundamental goal of the Fundacion Brass Band del Ecuador is to offer to young people of limited resources the possibility to study music. It was founded in 2000 by Jorge Pachacama (President), Patricia Anaguano (General Director), and the Swiss violinist, Corina Arpagauss, during her visit in Ecuador with La Sinfónica de Quito. The first instructors were members of the Sinfónica and the Pacific Brass.
During the first four years of existence, the Foundation has made three tours to the United States, a tour to Switzerland and has grown remarkably, having at the moment 64 young people in its advanced performing ensemble.
The after-school band exists to make access to music more universal. Obtaining a music education in Ecuador has become a privilege available only to the elite few. Several factors contribute to the lack of access. Deteriorating economic conditions, the decision in September 2000 to peg the national currency to the U.S. dollar and the resulting high inflation rate has meant that the average Ecuadorian family can barely cover their living costs. Attending concerts, getting any form of music education and developing ones musical talent remain elusive ideals in Ecuador.
Those donating instruments or music from the USA may obtain an address where they may be sent and then hand-carried to Ecuador.
For more information please contact brass@interactive.net.ec or John Stanley john@johnstanley.org.
©2006 WASBE