Day 1 in Antigua

9th July 2023

Antigua and Barbuda Day 1

Today was an exciting day for the 21 musicians travelling to Antigua with The Commonwealth Resounds, an organisation dedicated to the promotion of music and musicians across the Commonwealth, as we set off on a cultural exchange to the captivating island of Antigua.

Our day kicked off at Gatwick Airport, with the group meeting in person for the first time, full of anticipation and excitement. Instruments in hand and spirits buoyed, we were primed to embark on our adventure. We would like to pause to thank British Airways for their help getting all our instruments onto the plane.

On touching down in Antigua, we were greeted by Claudine and Karen Mae, The High Commissioner of Antigua. Their warmth and hospitality radiated through the welcome, we’re very grateful for their warm welcome and look forward to sharing our musical cultures.

The pace immediately picked up as our wind quintet was ushered to Pointe 99.1fm, where we had the opportunity to join the Prime Minister, Gaston Browne, on his well-known evening programme, Browne and Browne. Alison and Reuben spoke at length on the station about our plans and excitement whilst we are here. Discussing all things music with Colin O’Neil the conversation was positive and he really emphasised the power that music can bring to all our lives, be that academic, social or just for our own pleasure. It was amazing to hear about all the musical opportunities that the island offers and shares with the world. This platform offered us more than just an introduction to Antiguan society; it was a precious opportunity to share our musical passion with the nation.

With the group struggling to fit into the studio. Our wind quintet, just one small component of The Commonwealth Resounds group, enchanted listeners with a captivating Disney medley.

As the programme closed, we were introduced to King Goldie, a Barbudan who plays a fabulous home-made instrument. Using waste materials he created a banjo like instrument out of a butter tin and shaft of wood found nearby, a wonderful way to use music as an environmental power for good. He performed the popular redemption song to which the entire studio sang along with joy.

Prime minister, Gastone Browne, thanking the group for their performance just hours after stepping off the flight from London.

During the programme, the Prime Minister spoke about his support for the arts, a sentiment that was heartening to hear. The arts are a bedrock of any society, and knowing they hold a place in the island’s leadership discussions underscored the significance of our cultural exchange.

We’ve hit the ground running with our cultural exchange. The maiden day perfectly encapsulated the mission of The Commonwealth Resounds. It showcased the power of music and culture to build bridges, foster understanding, and resonate with the shared spirit of humanity. The warm reception we’ve received matched the weather and the evident appreciation for the arts have set the tone for what promises to be a deeply enriching journey ahead.

Hamish walks for the Commonwealth

20th May 2023

Hamish Walks to Antigua!

One Step at a Time: Hamish's 56km Commonwealth Walk to Antigua!!

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When you think of a nursing student, you might imagine someone studying hard, dedicated to the wellbeing of others. Hamish, a nursing student soon to join the NHS, is no different. Yet, he has also taken on a unique challenge to share a love for music and take part in an exciting cultural exchange.

In an awe-inspiring show of dedication, recently, on the 14th May 2023, Hamish completed a 56km walk. Each kilometer symbolising one of the 56 Commonwealth countries. His goal? To raise funds for the upcoming Commonwealth Resound’s collaborative project in the island of Antigua this July. This project will see Hamish joining with the Commonwealth Resounds team as they join the talented young musicians of the Antigua and Barbuda Youth Symphony Orchestra (ABYSO). ABYSO is a group of talented and committed young musicians who share our goal to bring music to all corners of the Commonwealth. The team are looking forward to learning from the musicians of the island and exchanging their rich musical cultures.

However, this journey cannot be completed without your support. Hamish is inviting you to be a part of this project by contributing to his fundraising campaign. Your support will enable Hamish to work with ABYSO and will also help spread the message of unity and musical collaborations that the Commonwealth Resounds stands for.

Hamish’s Story

11th April 2023

Hamish's Journey to Antigua Starts Here

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We are thrilled to share the inspiring story of Hamish’s fundraising challenge to enable him to travel to Antigua to work with the Antiguan Youth Orchestra and learn from their musical cultures.

This is not Hamish’s first event with The Commonwealth Resounds. Hamish first had the opportunity to work with us during a trip to Malta in 2015. He described the experience as:

“The most incredible and fulfilling trip I have ever had. It provided me with a unique insight into music making in other countries and expanding my teaching capabilities in a new and exciting way.”

Now, Hamish is dedicating his time and energy to a fundraising challenge to travel to Antigua and support the Antigua and Barbuda Youth Symphony Orchestra (ABYSO), an organisation that provides music education and performance opportunities for young people in Antigua and Barbuda.

Hamish’s fundraising challenge involves walking 56km in one day, representing each of the Commonwealth countries, and organising flashmobs in London to promote the project further. He hopes to raise awareness and support for The Commonwealth Resounds while achieving his personal goal of learning from the musical cultures of Antigua and supporting ABYSO.

We are inspired by Hamish’s dedication and passion for music education and cultural exchange. The Commonwealth Resounds is proud to support Hamish on this journey and we encourage everyone to take the time to read about the fantastic work we do within the Commonwealth.

If you would like to support Hamish’s fundraising challenge, please visit his GoFundMe page here to donate and for more information.

Tenth Anniversary of the Commonwealth Charter

4th April 2023

Tenth Anniversary of the Commonwealth Charter

Last week’s celebration of the Tenth Anniversary of the Commonwealth Charter was a truly memorable event which took place at South Africa House in Trafalgar Square, London on 16th March 2023.

A group of incredibly talented young musicians from the Royal Academy of Music Junior Department, recommended by The Commonwealth Resounds, performed for a distinguished audience to celebrate the achievements and vision of the Commonwealth . The event was also a true testament to the importance of music and the arts in bringing people together from all over the world.

Our group of musicians not only performed at this special tenth anniversary event, but they also had the honour of performing at the Commonwealth Service in Westminster Abbey earlier in the week. Their performances were truly captivating, blending traditional and contemporary styles from all over the world to create a sound that was both unique and engaging. They were a true representation of the diversity of musical talent across the Commonwealth and a reminder of the incredible impact that music can have in bringing people together.

In addition to The Commonwealth Resounds’ performance, the event at South Africa House also featured a photography exhibition entitled ‘A Lens on the Climate Crisis in Africa.’ This exhibition was a moving and powerful tribute to the devastating impact of climate change on African communities. The photographs were stunning and provided a visual representation of the urgent need to address this global crisis.

The Commonwealth Foundation Charter’s Tenth Anniversary was a true celebration of the Commonwealth and the incredible talent that exists within it. The event was a reminder of the incredible impact that the Commonwealth can have in promoting unity and cooperation among its member nations around the world.

BBC Choirs

4th April 2023

A Virtual Commonwealth Choir for the Coronation!

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The world is gearing up for a once-in-a-lifetime event – the Coronation Concert on 7th May 2023, broadcast live from Windsor Castle. This concert is being held to celebrate the Coronation of Their Majesties King Charles III and The Queen Consort. This is an incredible opportunity for anyone who loves to sing and be part of something bigger than themselves. And, you can be part of it too!

The Coronation Concert aims to unite communities in a virtual choir to represent and showcase all Nations of the Commonwealth. The BBC is searching for individuals, groups, couples, and choirs to join this historic Commonwealth Choir. The goal is to bring together singers from all over the world to create a powerful and moving performance.

If you are a singer or part of a choir, then this is an opportunity not to be missed. By joining the Commonwealth Choir, you will have the chance to be part of a once-in-a-lifetime event, broadcast live throughout the world. You will also get the opportunity to showcase your talents on an international stage, alongside other talented singers from around the world.

To be considered for this opportunity, all you have to do is click on the link above for details.

We are helping the BBC to look for singers and choirs of all ages and abilities, so whether you are a seasoned performer or just starting out, this is your chance to shine. You will be asked to submit a video of singing a chosen piece, and if successful, you will be part of the virtual choir that will perform at the Coronation Concert.