The Urraca Institute was founded on June 25, 1964. The history of the Music Band reflects more than half a century of effort, discipline, and commitment to musical excellence. It dates back to 1965, when Professor José Luis Rodríguez Vélez, a visionary educator and passionate promoter of the arts, spearheaded the acquisition of the first musical instruments for the then-newly founded Urracá Institute. That initiative sowed the seed of a project that, over the years, became one of Panama’s most representative student groups.
In 1970, under the direction of Professor Luzmila Díazde Pinzón, and thanks to the constant support of Professor Rodríguez Vélez, the band was officially born. In recognition of the national government’s support and General Omar Torrijos Herrera’s support for the country’s educational development, the group proudly adopted the name that distinguishes it today.
For more than five decades, the Music Band has transcended the borders of its province and its nation, taking the name of the Urracá Institute and Panama to important national and international stages. Its trajectory includes outstanding participations in competitions, festivals and musical meetings in Panama, Colombia and Costa Rica, consolidating itself as a benchmark of artistic excellence, comprehensive training and youth development.
Throughout its history, generations of students have found in this group a space to cultivate values such as discipline, leadership, teamwork and love for music. Its growth has been possible thanks to the legacy of directors and educators who dedicated their talent and vocation to the training of hundreds of young musicians, including its founder, Professor José Luis Rodríguez Vélez (r.i.p.), as well as teachers Bolívar Díaz, Julio Zamora, Omar Morales, and many others who left an indelible mark on this institution.
Today, with 75 members and a solid tradition of excellence, the band continues to write new pages of its history under the direction of maestro Abdías José Chang Lima, professional musician, academic, and cultural promoter, who has strengthened its training process through a modern vision of music education and a constant search for artistic growth.
More than a musical group, the General Omar Torrijos Herrera Music Band represents the pride of an educational community, the heritage of generations of musicians, and the permanent commitment to continue transforming lives through art.
