The RFMF Band today 13th June 2019 continued with its training of the Navy Brass Band members. Republic of Fiji Military Force Director of Music Major Meli Bulitiliva was very appreciative of the fact that the birth of the Naval Brass Band has now eventuated. The idea to form the band was initiated on Wednesday 25th July 2018 by the Commander of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) Rear Admiral Viliame Naupoto.
Major Meli Bulitiliva said one of the main reasons why Commander RFMF initiated the move was to cushion the impact of the military engagements that the RFMF band is currently undertaking both locally and abroad. Major Bulitiliva said the idea was an excellent one as the RFMF band at times have to cancel many invitations due to the busy and tight schedule they are entrusted with.
“All Naval band members have completed the recruit phase and majority are product of the National Youth Band who hold grade three in music and is also part of RFMF’s contribution to government in the provision of employment. Others also have experience of musical instruments coupled with those that have natural music talents totaling 19 personnel consisting of 3 female and 16 male. Currently they are undergoing a three months training at the RFMF band room and upon completion will have a pass out where they will be badged with the band lyre and officially become Naval Brass Band members, “said Major Bulitiliva.
Ordinary seaman Analisa Teiti, an eighteen year old girl who came all the way from Rabi was also part of the band. “I was very excited to be a band member. Being from an Island, I came to learn a lot of things which is very exciting and my comrades and instructors were always encouraging me to focus on the task ahead and remain positive at all times. It is indeed an honour to be part of the navy jazz band as this is history in the making.
Director of Music stated that the Naval Cadre also have a lot of customs and traditions and the inception of the Naval Brass Band incorporated with a jazz band will certainly accommodate all naval functions. Commander RFMF have also directed that some senior RFMF band members will be part of the new Naval Brass Band to assist in maintaining the standard of the RFMF.
Morale is very high and the naval brass band members are very enthusiastic and looking forward to the dawn of the historic moment when they will be officially badged and assume the honorable task at hand.
