Tassa association seeks soundproof practice hall

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The Tassa Association of T&T is calling for greater assistance for Tassa players.

This was announced by the head of the association Dr Vijay Ramlal Rai during a prize-giving function yesterday at the National Council of Indian Culture’s Divali Nagar compound in Chaguanas.

Ramlal Rai said the advent of COVID-19 had put many bands in a bad financial position.

He said the association had lobbied last year and a few bands were able to get $5,000 grants.

However, he said many players had been struggling.

Ramlal Rai said the association is appealing to the Government and the private sector to sponsor soundproof rooms for bands to practice.

He added that COVID-19 has resulted in little or no work for players who depended on weddings, religious functions and political events to earn a few dollars.

He added that with all of this reduced, players have been using the time to practise.

However, he pointed out that bands in urban areas run into problems with nearby residents and the law when complaints of noise pollution are made to the police.

He said a 400 square foot soundproof room would create a win-win situation for all parties.

He said proposals were sent to the Ministry of Culture but that the association has not received any feedback.

A total of $130,000 in prize money was distributed for the competition that took place in August 2021.

Charlie Boys of Penal won the $15,000 first prize in the senior category while the Bri-Ann Sylvan Bharat Tassa Group won the Junior category and took home the $5,000 prize.