By KT Reporter
With days left to Uganda Martyrs’ Day, 50 members of a brass band in Njeru municipality are putting the final touches as they prepare to perform at next week’s Martyrs’ Day celebrations in Namugongo.
The members who are learners from different schools in Njeru have camped at the St. Karoli Lwanga Catholic Parish for a one-week-long training by professional music instructors. They are familiarising themselves with the different musical instruments, which will enhance their performance at Namugongo.
Joseph Muyingo, the brass team leader hails Lugazi diocese, the lead organizers of this year’s martyr’s day celebrations for granting them an opportunity to perform at such a big stage.
Muyingo says that, some of the participants are children below the age of 10 years, but they are quickly grasping all the music concepts, which will enable them to stage a memorable performance.
He says that this opportunity has enabled them to share their music gift with thousands of people from different parts of the world, gathered together in commemoration of the foundation of their faith.
The brass band members have expressed enthusiasm as they gear up for what they say is a rare opportunity accorded to them by the diocese.
Brenda Nakiito, a member of the brass band, says that she was scouted from a local band in the area and is grateful to showcase her talents. Nakiito adds that she has been inspired to pursue her career in modern musical instruments.
Janet Namubiru, another member says that, she has been using the trumpet at local events from where the instructors spotted her to participate in the joint brass band for the Martry’s Day.
The annual celebration was set aside in honour of the martyrdom of 45 young men who converted to Christianity between 1885 and 1887, to the annoyance of the then Kabaka Mwanga II of Buganda, who ordered that they be burnt to death.
Millions of pilgrims from within and outside Uganda descend on Namugongo, the site where the majority of the converts were martyred, in celebration of their bravery. Lugazi diocese is animating this year’s celebrations-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
