Norway’s only all-girl marching band performs in Ridge

Girl power and Norwegian pride were in full force at Cannonball Park on Sunday, June 22 when Norway’s only all-girl marching band, Kolbotn-Garden, played in front of big crowd consisting of friends, family and fans.

Joining the marching band at the 101st Street and Fourth Avenue oasis were the Fort Hamilton High School Tiger Battalion JROTC and the Clann Eirann Pipers for an afternoon filled with music and fun.

“It’s a very special event, especially for the little girls. In Norway at one time, in the town, they couldn’t get into the band if they weren’t boys,” said Victoria Hofmo, president of theScandinavianEast Coast Museum (SECM). “This band was formed in 1959 and they’ve been going strong ever since. They’ve even performed for the king, so that’s very exciting. We are very happy to have them here.”

The event was sponsored by the SECM, State Senator Marty Golden and Councilmember Vincent Gentile. “Welcome to Bay Ridge, which is home to one of the most enduring Norwegian American communities in the northeast, especially in New York City,” Gentile told the band.

The girls, who have performed all over Norway, played traditional songs, such as the Norwegian Anthem, as well as contemporary music.

Arlene Rutuelo, chairperson of the Norwegian American 17th May Committee, stated that the event was extra special because this year marks the 200th anniversary of the constitution of Norway.

“These girls couldn’t make it here for the parade, but they wanted to do something special and celebrate with us in New York so it became a little extended,” she said. “I think the youngest member is seven years old. So it’s really cool. We do these events to try to educate people about Norwegian heritage and culture.”

The event came to fruition thanks to Hofmo communicating with teacher Kristin Hesla Halvorsen who helped bring the band to New York.

“I received an email from her about the girls possibly performing in the New York area. I wanted to do something close to the fort so that they had that connection to military,” said Hofmo.

“It’s the first time I’ve seen them. They’re great.”

“I really appreciate that they’ve given us this opportunity to perform here at Bay Ridge,” said Halvorsen. “The girls are very excited, and love to perform and show their best.”

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