Welcoming Aliyah

Introducing Our New Commonwealth Music Ambassador

Aliyah Ramatally: Connecting Musical Cultures

Meet Aliyah Ramatally: Our New Ambassador

Introducing Aliyah Ramatally, the vibrant and innovative Trinidadian composer making waves as our new Commonwealth Music Ambassador. Now lighting up the UK music scene, Aliyah’s compositions pulse with storytelling, and cultural flair.

Aliyah’s journey began at Durham University, where she excelled academically, achieving a Bachelor of Arts in Music and a Master of Arts with Distinction in Music & Science. Her passion for music has seen her join forces with the prestigious Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM).

Aliyah’s breakthrough moment came in 2020 when she wowed global audiences, winning the Audience Vote Award at the Commonwealth International Composition Award (CICA) with her unforgettable piece, “Mundo Nuevo – New World.” This bold and eclectic composition seamlessly fused the flute, steelpan, vibrant trombone harmonies, rich viola textures, and beats of the djembe.

 

Innovative Projects and Collaborations

Aliyah’s Trinidadian heritage is the heartbeat of her music. Her acclaimed portfolio, “Iere,” completed during her undergraduate years, boldly explores critical themes of colonization, lush Caribbean landscapes, enchanting folklore, and the dazzling spirit of Trinidad and Tobago’s iconic carnival.

With music premiered and embraced internationally—from dynamic stages in New York and Italy to vibrant showcases in Cardiff and across the UK—Aliyah Ramatally’s compositions are inspiring a global conversation. As Commonwealth Music Ambassador, Aliyah is passionately committed to spotlighting the Commonwealth’s diverse cultural voices, creating connections, and championing music as a powerful force for good.

Welcoming our New Ambassador, Zara Antonia

Welcoming our New Ambassador, Zara Antonia

Introducing Our New Commonwealth Music Ambassador

Zara Antonia: A Visionary in Music and Culture

Join us in welcoming Zara Antonia, a trailblazing artist dedicated to uniting cultures through music.

Meet Zara Antonia: Our New Ambassador

The Commonwealth Resounds proudly announces Zara Antonia as its new Commonwealth Music Ambassador. Zara, a dynamic musician, producer, and visual artist from South London, will serve as a cultural advocate, to foster collaborations across The Commonwealth.

Of Jamaican heritage, Zara’s innovative artistic projects reflect her personality. As a classically-trained pianist, Zara has dazzled audiences worldwide, performing extensively across the UK, Europe, and North America. Her versatile recital programs blend historical masterpieces with contemporary compositions, captivating diverse audiences.

Beyond her performances, Zara’s notable projects include collaborations with prestigious institutions such as the Commonwealth Secretariat and the British Royal Family. Her dedication to music and community service has earned her recognition as a Young Ambassador for the Lang Lang International Music Foundation and a Keys of Inspiration Ambassador, mentoring inner-city primary school students.

Innovative Projects and Collaborations

Zara Antonia is renowned for her groundbreaking artistic projects that seamlessly blend music and visual arts. Her work with the Commonwealth Secretariat and the British Royal Family highlights her commitment to cultural diplomacy and artistic excellence.

Award Winning, International Artist

Zara studied at the esteemed Purcell School, receiving the Creators’ Award and the Arthur Felsenstein Leaver’s Award, and now continues her musical journey at the Royal Academy of Music with Professor Joanna MacGregor.

Recently selected as a Southbank Centre Future Artist for the 2024-25 season in collaboration with The Manchester Collective, Zara is perfectly positioned to inspire a new generation of Commonwealth musicians. In her role as Commonwealth Music Ambassador, Zara Antonia will use music as a platform to enhance cultural exchange, celebrate diversity, and promote inclusive dialogue among Commonwealth countries.