Aruba’s musical culture recently resonated abroad during the ‘YellowHouse’ event in the Netherlands, where Aruban students and musicians showcased their talent at the prestigious Codarts Conservatory in Rotterdam.
Among them was Juean Orman, a Global Music student, who explained how groups of musicians are formed to present cultural projects within the conservatory. Codarts, one of the largest music universities in the Netherlands with more than 900 students, offers programs in diverse styles ranging from jazz, pop, tango, and flamenco to Latin, Indian, and classical music.
For this special event, the ARB Brassband, composed mostly of Aruban musicians, was invited to perform. Their energetic rhythms created a spectacular atmosphere, surprising many international students who had never before experienced Aruba’s unique “asambeho” musical style.
“It was a pleasure to share the warmth and contagious energy of Aruba’s music with the audience,” said Orman, emphasizing the importance of cultural exchange.
The ARB Brassband, founded three years ago, has performed at events such as Paranda Rubiano and aims to expand by including international students from Aruba’s neighboring islands and beyond, further spreading Aruban music.
Orman encouraged aspiring musicians to pursue their dreams, whether through studying at Codarts in the Netherlands or expanding their knowledge at Aruba’s own music schools. He also applauded community music projects on the island, stressing the need for more early exposure to instruments and traditional rhythms such as tambu, waltz, marcha, and calypso.
This international performance not only showcased the richness of Aruba’s musical heritage but also underscored the island’s cultural footprint abroad.
Photo Credits: https://diario.aw/categories/noticia/general/asambeho-a-resona-den-conservatorio-na-hulanda
