Porta pa Harmonia (Gateway to Harmony), an initiative by Prime Minister Mike Eman, continues to provide opportunities for youth to develop their artistic talents while keeping our cultural heritage alive. In December 2025, the program organized a Dande workshop with the goal of strengthening Aruba’s folkloric tradition.
Currently, in the month of June—the month of the Dera Gay celebration—activities continue with a special focus on traditional music. Instrument instructors at Porta pa Harmonia have joined forces to teach children how to play the rhythm of Dera Gay.
Vio Wester highlighted that, although this is the first experience with the rhythm for many students, the children are showing a lot of enthusiasm and eagerness to learn. According to Wester, they practice constantly to master the rhythm and play in harmony. The teaching process is full of satisfaction, especially when seeing the progress of the students.
Tico Kelly, a violin and cuarta instructor, expressed his pride in seeing interest in Aruban music and culture continue to grow. According to Kelly, the project is an important way to keep traditions alive and to ensure that the youth continue to carry Aruba’s cultural heritage into the future. Together with his students, they are preparing Dera Gay presentations where rhythm, song, and instruments combine into a complete cultural experience.
Marciano Godette emphasized that percussion goes beyond just music. According to Godette, percussion contributes to the development of coordination, discipline, and musical sense, which also helps children with other instruments. Constant practice, according to Godette, is the key to mastering rhythm and connecting naturally with music.
Vanessa Croes, instructor and director of the Primary School Section of Scol Amplio Nos Cosecha, stressed that culture, music, and art are essential in the holistic development of a child. As part of the curriculum, students actively participate in cultural activities and Dera Gay presentations. The goal is a holistic development, where each student can develop creativity, talent, and artistic expression.
Scol Amplio Nos Cosecha expressed its gratitude to Porta pa Harmonia and Prime Minister Mike Eman for providing this as a unique opportunity for students and families.
Students also shared their personal experiences. Jadeveon Sanchez indicated that he is enjoying his percussion lessons and discovering a new and special way to express his musical talent. Jeevan Albertus, who already has experience with the violin, continues to develop his skills while connecting more deeply with the traditional rhythm of Dera Gay.
Claire Sophie highlighted that she is enjoying her violin lessons and is gradually gaining more confidence in her musical ability. Meanwhile, Dinzel Soto Soto emphasized the historical value of Dera Gay, explaining how each song tells a story passed down from generation to generation. His goal is to one day represent this tradition in a festival and continue sharing Aruba’s cultural heritage.
Overall, Porta pa Harmonia confirms its role as a space where music, education, and culture unite to form a new generation that is conscious and proud of its Aruban identity.
