The Regional Director for Culture stated on Faial island on Wednesday night that Azorean philharmonic bands are "schools of life" in the promotion of values for the construction of a fairer society and the full exercise of citizenship.

Jorge Bruno conveyed his opinion on the sidelines of a solemn session to celebrate the 131st anniversary of Unânime Praiense Philharmonic Society, which he attended on behalf of the President of the Government.

The celebration of this milestone is an opportunity to highlight the "significant social impact" of these institutions as "schools of life in the promotion of cultural and social values and solidarity."
 
According to the government official, Azorean philharmonic bands are still "institutions with relevance for families as musicians do not become members of these societies without the involvement and commitment of their families."

Jorge Bruno also stressed that Unânime Praiense Philharmonic Society and Azorean philharmonic bands in general have increasingly included youngsters and women. This trend has been more noticeable since philharmonic bands gained a new impetus with autonomic governments.