Queen of Paradise Orchestra students embark on international music journey
Two pioneering students from the Queen of Paradise Orchestra in Vanimo are set to begin an exciting new chapter in their musical journey after being accepted to study classical music in the Philippines.
Domitila Aidan and Margela Wasemo were officially farewelled during a small ceremony before departing for St. Scholastica's College of Music in the Philippines, where they will undertake a two-year diploma program in classical music.
The opportunity marks a major milestone not only for the two students but also for the Queen of Paradise Orchestra, which has grown into one of Papua New Guinea's most successful youth classical music programs.
For Domitila, who joined the orchestra in 2021 at just 15 years of age, the opportunity is both exciting and overwhelming.
She said while travelling overseas for the first time is a daunting experience, she is determined to complete her studies and return home to help teach and inspire future generations of young musicians in West Sepik.
Established in 2018 by the Institute of the Incarnate Word [IVE] Missionaries under the direction of Venezuelan musician Jesus Briceno, the Queen of Paradise Orchestra began with fewer than ten students.
Today, the program has grown to more than 150 young musicians, offering junior music education and developing what is now one of Papua New Guinea's few community-based symphonic orchestras.
Head of Orchestra program, Fr. Martin Prado, described the students' departure as an important achievement for the orchestra and a reflection of years of dedication by students, parents, teachers and supporters.
He said the long-term vision is to build local capacity by training Papua New Guineans to become qualified music educators and conductors who can continue expanding the program across West Sepik and eventually other parts of the country.
The students will receive professional training in classical music and conducting before returning to Vanimo to help lead and mentor the next generation of musicians.
Domitila's father, Aidan Namban, thanked the IVE Missionaries and everyone involved in the orchestra for giving his daughter an opportunity that he said has transformed her life.
He said the program has provided discipline, confidence and purpose, while opening doors that once seemed impossible.
The two students are scheduled to depart for the Philippines this week, marking another significant milestone for the Queen of Paradise Orchestra as it continues using music to empower young people and create educational opportunities for the future.