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Speeches 2003

June 23, 2003, 6:30 p.m.

Remarks by Ambassador Linda E. Watt for The New England Youth Philharmonic Orchestra's Chamber Music Concert

U.S. Embassy Residence

A warm welcome to each of you. I am thrilled that the first event of the Youth Orchestra's historic Centennial series of concerts in Panama is taking place right here in the Residence of the U.S. Embassy. There could be no finer United States contribution to Panama's Centennial than this ensemble of America's most talented young people. I think we can all sense the palpable energy from them in this room this evening.

The dream of bringing the New England Conservatory Youth Philharmonic Orchestra to Panama began when Terry Ford introduced two key men to each other, one Panamanian and one American, who discovered they shared a passion for music and culture, for common values, and for education and talent.

The Panamanian was Mr. Herman Bern, businessman and entrepreneur, whose immense generosity and commitment opened doors for the group to come to Panama. He has personally supported this tour and gotten directly involved in the group's activities. The American was Mr. Gerald Slavet, the New England Conservatory's Executive Manager, who enthusiastically included the Republic of Panama on the orchestra's 2003 international tour.

A Centennial of Independence is really a celebration of values -- values of freedom and opportunity, of sacrifice and perseverance. What better way to celebrate than with the universal optimism and joy and beauty of music.

It is no small feat, as you may imagine, to transport 100 musicians -- and their instruments -- to Panama. Tonight's chamber concert, and the full orchestral concerts this week in Panama City and Santiago, could not have happened without the support from many individuals and organizations. I want to mention them:

  • Mrs. Doris Rosas de Mata, Ministry of Educación
  • The Honorable Mayor Juan Carlos Navarro, Alcaldía de Panamá
  • Mrs. Liriola Pitti, IPAT
  • Mr. and Mrs. Herman Bern, Empresas Bern
  • Mr. Luis Navarro, BankBoston
  • Mr. Terry Ford, National Concert Association
  • Mr. Alberto Vallarino, Banistmo Mercantil
  • Mr. Raúl Morrice, CONASE
  • Mr. Juan Carlos Fábrega, Banistmo Security
  • Mr. Roberto Mendoza, Cable & Wireless
  • Mr. Eulalio Urrutia, Club Kiwanis
  • Mr. Fidel Reyes, Gamboa Rainforest Resort
  • Mr. David Starling, Panama Railroad
  • Mr. Joseph Salteiro, HSBC Bank

 

They deserve a round of applause.

Maestro Zander and members of the orchestra - we are delighted that you are here and honored to be able to hear your first performance in Panama.