The TMPD band was initially founded in November 2012, with 32 members signing up, with practically no music background or experience. The TMPD band subsequently became the TMPD Ceremonial Unit, being branded one of the Executive Mayor’s special projects. The unit consists of a band, choir and a drill squad that perform exclusively at ceremonial events for the City of Tshwane on a permanent basis.
Recently, formal training was initiated for the whole unit which is now being facilitated by the Department of Music at the University of Pretoria (UP) and Enterprises UP.
With future expectations for the unit to start rendering services to the entire province, the formal training has been prompted by UP to increase the strength and capacity of the unit. The formal band training programme started in January 2016 and runs for 12 months, consisting of theoretical and practical tutorials.
There are currently 16 band members receiving training for the trumpet, trombone, guitar, saxophone, keyboard and percussions.
For more information on Training Solutions visit http://www.enterprises.up.ac.za/training-solutions/
Above: The Ceremonial Unit of the Tshwane Metro Police Department (TMPD) in action.
