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SOLBIATE OLONA (VA) 18th APR. 2010. On Tuesday 12th January 2010 a huge earthquake registering massive 7.0-magnitude struck the Caribbean nation of Haiti. Haiti's worst quake in two centuries hit south of the capital Port-au-Prince and killed over 100,000 people and left millions homeless. The world was shocked by the loss of life and aid and support has flooded into the area. In response to the tragedy the Support Brigade at the HQ NRDC-ITA decided to hold a concert to raise money for those who have suffered. Despite being many thousands of miles from their home base, the Commander and personnel of the Brigade and the Headquarters felt compelled to demonstrate their support and sympathy.

The concert which was christened Suonando Per La Vita, which translates as Playing For Life was held on Sunday 18th April at the Headquarters of the NRDC-ITA in Caserma Ugo Mara, in Solbiate Olona. Despite the inclement weather the concert was a huge success and allowed the Headquarters and Support Brigade to demonstrate support for those who have suffered so much.

The Deputy Commander of the NRDC-ITA, Major General David Capewell opened the concert and encouraged performers and spectators to support the cause. The 600 spectators including local mayors and members of the local community were entertained by a large and diverse number of acts. Artists and performers from the local Folk Group Bosino, Chorus Singers Notum Novum and Bands from Busto Arsizio, Gorla Minore and Marnate provided the music along with the Lonate Pozzolo Bersalieri Band. Acts and demonstration from the Guarda di Finanza Dog Unit, a dance school and a local Horse Stables proved to be very popular with the audience.

All in all the day was a huge success, Colonel Antonio Pennino, the Commander of the Support Brigade, was delighted with the way the event went. This event was planned in order to demonstrate our support for the people of Haiti. My men and I were all saddened by what occurred in Haiti and felt compelled to assist albeit in a small way. I would like to thank all the performers for what they did at the concert and for the spectators who turned up. Despite the weather the support was fantastic. Overall we raised over 4000 Euros for what is a very worthy cause.