2024 Jr Panorama - Newtown Girls (Right-handed Drumming)

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In January 2024, I participated in the Junior Panorama National Competition as the drummer on the drumkit for the Newtown Girls RC Primary School. It was a unique and emotional experience for the girls and me, teaching us resilience and perseverance despite obstacles.

The Newtown Girls did not have a drummer and were practicing the song “Boss Lady” by Kes the Band. Because of the song's title, their teacher was looking for a girl drummer. Tragically, the mother of the musical arranger passed away, preventing him from completing the arrangement in time for the competition. This setback could have been devastating to most but not for the girls and me.

I was contacted two weeks before the competition by the teacher at Newtown Girls. I had to learn the song, interpret and arrange the drumming by myself without the arranger. When I first met the Newtown Girls, my heart went out to them; they had been practicing continuously with their teacher despite not having an arranger and a drummer. They had kept faith that they would find a drummer in time.

The girls were very excited when they saw me, and we quickly became close. I wanted to do my best for them. We practiced daily, and once home, after finishing my homework (which I couldn't escape due to my vigilant parents), I practiced on my electronic kit to avoid making noise (as much as a drummer can!). Larry Lai, Micah Charles, and my dad were instrumental in helping me. With the encouragement of the teacher, the principal, and the whole school, the girls and I worked hard to be ready for the competition.

During this time, I met Dean James, the new left-handed drummer for Kes the Band, who has remained very supportive and helpful.

This video is a recording of our performance for the National Junior Panorama Competition 2024. The girls and I played our hearts out. This is the first time I have interpreted and arranged my own drumming part without an arranger.

I will also upload the recording of a practice session on my electronic kits in preparation for this competition. See link:    • BOSS LADY ASTRID OM 2024 (Right-Handed Dru...  

I ask that this channel remains a safe and supportive space, offering constructive feedback for development, especially from experienced percussion teachers, professionals, and drummers. I am committed to continuous improvement on this lifelong JOURNEY to advance drumming and percussion for All.

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