WILLEMSTAD - The well-known tambú player Raymond 'Ompi Tio' Justiana (49) passed away yesterday. In recent years he mainly performed for children. He was also very knowledgeable about the local music history. The Curaçao folklore was close to his heart.
According to acquaintances, he was a faithful friend. He played practically all percussion instruments such as the barí, chapi and wiri. Ompi Tio played in 'Morto & Laman' by the Volksoperahuis Muziektheater (2009) and at the Wintertuinfestival (2019 & 2020). He often performed with Tio Ali and Sheila Payne of Gogorobi Foundation. In the past he played in church with the music group 'Amigunan di Hesus' and was active with Narema.
He frequently accompanied music groups during the Kantadó Mayó Seú festival. Before his death, he was working on a collection of children's stories. He had a passion for youth education projects.
Ompi Tio passed away after a short illness. He leaves behind his wife Meli Martina and children.
Photo: Facebook