I’ve often heard this sentiment, but what exactly does it mean? The raw talent to be found in many areas of life can be developed and honed to an extraordinary level, but it takes knowledge and application, time and effort, and sometimes more. If you are in the right place at the right time, or if you are ready to jump into an opportunity faster than anyone else, or you can have a vision that no-one else can see, then you have that extra advantage; what do you do with it?
Jamaica is known around the world for it’s music, but I would suggest that the Jamaica of today reflects a rather different situation, with an apparently limited musical intelligence. I am interested in the main influencers on the history of Music Education in the Caribbean and Jamaica particularly. What key individuals have influenced this musical journey? What institutions or organizations have grown and waned over the years with their accompanying influences? What projects or events of the past had great impact? or very little impact, and why? How have changes in policy and economic situations affected music education in our schools and in the community at large?
While Covid has had a major effect not only on our education systems, it has affected church gatherings and many choirs have not met for some time. Many have lost that sense of commitment needed to sing in a church choir and are content to ‘watch online’; others have moved abroad, or sadly passed away. Groups and artists that were thriving previously have to pivot and rethink how they can rebuild and continue to meet the musical needs.
I’m interested in your view of influences on music education in Jamaica, whether good or bad. This might include persons who have had a far-reaching influence: teachers, university professors, church musicians, artists, researchers, social commentators, political leaders; institutions and organizations, and projects or events. Please contact me through this site.
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