Investitures are a yearly affair in most band programmes.
These ceremonies have always been an integral part of the band tradition in Singapore, whereby the graduating batch of leaders will handover their roles formally to the upcoming batch of leaders.
The Band Post witnessed Yuying Concert Band‘s investiture on 27 June this year and uncovered 5 reasons why these events should be held annually.
1. Parents are involved too! And some mobile cameras too…
Band investitures are never complete without the people who first supported you into joining the CCA. Although most of these parents are present for their children in the Secondary One level, it is definitely heartwarming to have them around to see their children promoted as an official member.
Their journey may be tough for beginners but through encouragement and perseverance, it is something worth celebrating for their first baby step. Oh well, for us, we can remember vividly how we were tortured when we were recruits back in the old days under the hot sun! *smiles*
2. It is another occasion to go totally crazy and cheer for your bandmates
We have seen the members from the Secondary Two to Five levels cheering on the junior band performance, and for every certificate presented for each individual – that should be the band spirit and it is perfectly okay!
3. No one knows their new responsibilities until the investiture day itself
It’s a SECRET! It must have been hard on the teachers and conductors to keep the secret away from them. But it can also be a happy surprise for the few of them in the end who have never expected it.
It’s one of those days where hits and misses are part of growing up.
4. You can get to see your beloved seniors and old friends
It is not just another band investiture, but it can be a reunion, especially for your graduated seniors or with the alumni of your school.
5. Finally, a proper band family photo
Band photos like this are usually taken to mark key events such as concerts or overseas tours.
The investiture is another joyous occasion for a photo-taking session in the journey of a band member, and also another memory to remember and treasure for the rest of their lives.
Have you had your investiture yet? Share with us your experience or the day you have been appointed as a leader of the band!
A contributing editor at TBP.