The Danish children and youth orchestra, Nordfyns Concertband, was in Almuñécar for a week from October the 15th. They were here to join in a twinning ceremony with the Almuñécar Municipal Band (Banda de Música de Almuñécar). Nordfyns Concertband consists of approx. 20 musicians from the age of 11 and up, who all play on harmonic instruments.

While they were here, they held several rehearsals with the Almuñécar Municipal Band at the music school, located above the Municipal Market. This was in preparation for the big Friendship Concert they held for the public on Sunday the 17th at noon in town-hall square (Plaza de la Constitución).

The concert was originally scheduled for 8:00 pm on Sat. the 16th but was cancelled by the Mayor at the last minute, as this coincided with the inauguration festivities taking place in Velilla.

The bandmasters for Nordfyns Concertband are Jakob Larsen and Ole Schouenborg, and they led the band while they played songs such as The Lion King, Mission Impossible, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Queen in Concert. Both bands joined together and played a selection of Abba songs, as well as El Gato Montés, Moment for Morricone, Granada, to name a few. Naturally, Manuel Vargas Gardón (the bandmaster for the Almuñécar Municipal Band) conducted as well.

After the joint concert at town-hall square, Nordfyns Concertband proceeded to Café Rosa, where they played for all the guests who were attending Café Rosa’s 4th Anniversary party. Happy 4th Anniversary Bent and Gitte! They played two sets of 25 minutes. Thankfully, the weather cooperated and was beautiful that day, which was vital seeing as both concerts that day were held outdoors.

During their stay here, the members of Nordfyns Concertband had a very busy program planned for them. They were invited to a reception at Palacete de la Najarra (the tourist office). They were given a 2-hour walking tour of Almuñécar to see all the cultural and historical sites of the town. They also had a chance to visit the Nerja caves followed by a picnic in the mountains.

Furthermore, a visit to the Almuñécar Aquarium was arranged for them, as well as a visit to an old village house near the Castillo de San Miguel. They spent a day on the Tesorillo Beach, where a big batch of paella was prepared and served for them.

Another treat was having one of the local dance schools entertain them with a Flamenco show. Their last day here was a Friday, so of course they had a chance to visit the Friday market as well. All in all, a very interesting end culturally educational program for these young people, and I am sure many new friendships were formed between the Danish and Spanish band members. To view photos of their trip, please see their website http://www.nfcb.dk.