On Tuesday, the National Academy for the Performing Arts was host to an evening of classical and cultural harmonies. Stacia Yearwood tells us about The Franco-German Classical Music Concert, which featured the National Philharmonic Orchestra.
The French and German Embassies, hosted the Franco-German Classical Concert to recognise the 62nd Anniversary of the signing of the Élysée Treaty, which marked the beginning of a new era of friendship between France and Germany after two World Wars.
“Regardless of what has separated them, people can always reach out and achieve lasting peace. It takes courage and political will, but it’s always possible. We share what matters most: respect for and defense for the rule of law and fundamental freedoms.”
German Ambassador, Dr Christophe Eick, followed with a personal anecdote about the power of freedom.
“My father was German, and my mother was French. And I was born around the time the Élysée Treaty was signed in a part of France that, for centuries, had been fought over by the two neighbouring countries. So, for me, the Élysée Treaty is a message of hope. It shows what is possible when one puts people at the center. And in particular young people and music.”
Calypsonian, Karene Asche and President of the National Olympic Committee, Diane Henderson, were honoured by both embassies for their contributions to youth, sport, culture, and social change.
Director of Bilateral Relations, at the Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs, Dr Paul Byam, noted instances of cultural partnership between Trinidad and Tobago and France.
“The iconic music festival, La Fete de la Musique, originating in France, is celebrated annually in this country. The French have embraced the national instrument of Trinidad and Tobago, the steelpan. And one of their biggest bands, Calypso Seacion Steelband, paid homage to Calypso Rose, by releasing a tribute album of some of her classics.”
Dr Byam highlighted another collaboration between Germany and Trinidad and Tobago.
“I must recognise Germany’s efforts to advance the Environmental Research Institute of Charlotteville, ERIC. This initiative, which is supported by the German Embassy, under the German Federal Office’s Cultural Preservation Programme, aims to honour Tobago’s cultural and natural heritage and strengthen the Fine Arts sector within the north-east Tobago UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and promote local talent while addressing cultural identity.”
The evening was punctuated by classical harmonies from the National Philharmonic Orchestra, which was a source of pride for all in attendance.