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Released 9 September 2009
Youth from Richmond Area Command's School
of Performing Arts Perform at Richmond Kickers Game
In late-August, youth from The Salvation Army Richmond Area Command's School of Performing Arts performed at the Richmond Kickers game versus the Wilmington Hammerheads at the University of Richmond Stadium.
The Army's junior brass band and the percussion ensemble from The Salvation Army Boys and Girls club practiced extremely hard for several weeks leading up to the game so that they could perform the national anthem and provide half time entertainment for the 4,000 soccer fans in attendance.
In the afternoon, before kickoff, these musicians performed for the family orientated crowd that had come to enjoy the pre-game festivities, which were all part of the Kicker's 2nd Annual Family Fest.
The children were very excited to play the National Anthem in front of a large and receptive crowd, including the Kickers' players, and they were thrilled to receive cheers and applause.
"It was a great experience and a great chance to express myself on the drum. I was really nervous but it was amazing when the crowd applauded and cheered really loud at the end of it," said 11-year-old musician James Ward.
During the game's halftime, Hugh Jones, The Salvation Army Boys and Girls Club Executive Director, addressed the crowd, inviting everyone to come and check out The Club in Richmond's Church Hill neighborhood, and the young musicians entertained the fans.
Once the game had ended in a 2-2 draw, these musicians once again played as people exited the stadium and they received many compliments and words of thanks for being there and making the day so special for those in attendance.
This event was an incredible day for the children and one that they will not soon forget.
The Salvation Army Richmond Area Command would like to thank the Richmond Kickers for allowing us to take part in their Family Day.
"It was amazing to play in front of 4,000 people including my friends and family. It was really fun to be there and to see the game," said 7-year-old musician James Jackson.
The Salvation Army Richmond Area Command's School of Performing Arts provides free music and performing arts lessons to at-risk youth. These lessons include keyboard, guitar, percussion, woodwind, brass, choir, mime, sacred dance and drama.