Antigua Day 5

Day 5 was another exhilarating day for The Commonwealth Resounds team in Antigua. The composition workshops continued with a focus on group collaboration. Jamie led large-scale group compositions, building on the leitmotifs each group had developed during their initial sessions. The students worked together, combining their ideas and creating intricate musical pieces that showcased their collective creativity and newfound skills.

After the workshops, the team embarked on a tour of the island, soaking in the rich history and breathtaking scenery of Antigua. The first stop was English Harbour and Nelson’s Dockyard, a picturesque historic area that offered a glimpse into the island’s past. It was fascinating to learn that in Antigua, the right to access the beach is enshrined in law, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the island’s beautiful coastline.

From there, we climbed the thousand feet to Shirley Heights, where we were rewarded with a panoramic view across the Atlantic Ocean and the east side of the island. The stunning vistas were a highlight of the day, providing a perfect backdrop for reflection and inspiration.

The day concluded with a visit to the panyards, where we had the privilege of meeting the incredible Hell’s Gate Steel Pan Orchestra. Run by the Minister for Culture, Kahn Cordice, the orchestra welcomed us with open arms. They answered all of our questions about the steel pan and gave us loads of ideas for compositions, an experience that was both humbling and exhilarating. We cannot thank them enough for their generosity and the unforgettable experience they provided. To finish off, Gabriel joined the Orchestra on trumpet to jam “the two of us” the solos from everyone were utterly amazing!