TWENTY of the top community marching bands from the Corporate Area and St Catherine have received musical instruments worth $2m from the Jamaica Biscuit Company Limited to boost their programmes.

Vouchers worth $100,000 each were presented to band representatives at a special ceremony at the Police Officers’ Club in Kingston, recently.

The Jamaica Biscuit Company, through its Excelsior Water Crackers brand, has partnered with the Community Security and Safety Branch (CSSB) of the Jamaica Constabulary Force since 2013 to promote the launch and operation of marching bands to provide a positive outlet for the youth to showcase their talents. For the first two years of the partnership, the bands were involved in the Excelsior Marching Band festivals.

JAMBISCO said in a release that instead of the usual festival this year, the partners agreed to provide instruments ensure the viability of the bands’ programmes.

General Manager of the Jamaica Biscuit Company Cameron Bisland explained the new focus for 2015.

“It’s simple. More people can learn to play if more instruments are available and we want to provide an avenue for as many young people as possible to be a part of a viable and productive means for them to showcase their talents,” he said.

Senior Superintendent of CSSB Karina Hood stated that the marching band initiative has led to improved police-community relations, which only augurs well in the fight against crime.

“Our role extends far beyond law enforcement to reaching communities in any way possible and we see the marching bands as vehicles of social change. The youths are able to learn the values of teamwork, respect, confidence, and commitment while lifting the community spirit,” she added. The bands which benefitted are Ackles Hill Scouts Troop, All Saints Steppers, Eagle Star, George Washington, Golden Star, Innercity, Linstead United, Magnificent Troopers Drum Corps, Mighty Flyers, Oakland Cavaliers Drum & Bugle Corps, Pembroke Hall Drum & Bugle Corps – The Falcon, Portmore Catholic Panthers, Portmore Pacesetters, Rising Stars, Skyliner, St Michael’s Stepper’s, Thrillers, Tivoli Gardens Drum Corps & Drill Team, VAS Entertainment Seaview All Stars and Western Steppers.