We are thrilled to announce our return to the beautiful shores of Antigua & Barbuda this summer! Our previous journey was filled with unforgettable moments, from teaching recorder in Barbuda to witnessing the incredible dedication of young musicians. This year, we aim to build on the foundations laid last year with advanced composition workshops, rehearsals, and performances of new pieces. Our collaborative projects will involve both returning students and new faces, ensuring a diverse and enriching experience for all participants. Antigua and Barbuda will be welcoming students from Montserrat and St Kitts & Nevis to join 20 young Antiguan students in this unique project, the first ever to happen in the Caribbean. Stay tuned for more updates as we approach our departure date.

One of the highlights was the first ever Symphony Orchestra concert on Barbuda, where the energy and excitement was palpable. The enchanting rehearsals at iconic venues like the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium added to the unforgettable experience, creating memories that will stay with us forever.

The warm reception from the local community in Antigua was heartwarming and encouraging. The evident musical potential on the islands was a testament to the talent and dedication of the young musicians we had the pleasure of working with. Their enthusiasm and commitment to learning and growing musically was truly remarkable.

This summer, we have an exciting lineup of activities planned. Our team of dedicated composers and musicians will be conducting advanced workshops, diving deeper into the intricacies of musical creation. Composition will be a key focus, as we work closely with young musicians from Antigua & Barbuda, Montserrat and St Kitts & Nevis to refine their skills and prepare for a stunning performance of new music by young people at the end of the week.

There are days that remain etched in memory, not merely for the events, but for the spirit and resonance they carry. Day 9 on our journey was one such day; Barbuda witnessed its inaugural concert. The task was formidable. With no existing arts infrastructure on the island, every instrument, equipment piece, and a sizable crew had to be ferried over on a 90-minute boat journey. As if nature wanted to test our resolve, weather-related delays briefly threatened to throw a spanner in the works. But the TCR team, ever efficient and adaptable, sprang into action. And, just as the final touches were put in place, the arrival of the Governor General to open the concert seemed like a sign from the universe that all was aligned.

The national anthem heralded the ABYSO’s debut performance on Barbuda soil. It was an historic moment, signaling not just the ensemble’s rightful embrace of the name “Barbuda” but also the island’s broader commitment to nurturing its musical roots. The earlier efforts of our team, helped initiate a string teaching programme and the recorder ensemble, bore fruit. The young recorder ensemble’s performance, featuring a fresh composition crafted in collaboration with Dan Swanni, was an aural treat. The palpable growth in the fledgling musicians’ confidence over mere days was nothing short of inspiring.

Speeches were given by Karen Thomas, ABYSO’s Barbuda Coordinator and Her Excellency Karen-Mae Hill. High commissioner of Antigua and Barbuda. Her words to the parents of the islanders were full of hope, but also the reminder that it takes a team to make a difference. Everyone can play their part and everyone can achieve something incredible. With everything coming together in this concert, The ‘Create, Perform, Inspire’ programme certainly hits all three of those points.

Nature had its own dramatic encore in store for us. As we rendered ‘Under the Sea’, the heavens opened, almost making the song’s lyrics a reality! The downpour saw a scramble for cover, a brief pause, and a fervent hope for clearer skies. Once the storm abated, the concert concluded with one final performance of Abba.

Post-performance, a new challenge awaited – the race against time to pack up and board the boat. Battling the tempestuous sea again, the team’s spirits remained undeterred, taking pride in the monumental feat achieved.

We know that the future of music on the island is just starting, but wow did it start strong! At the end of the stay, 20 musicians returned elated, but tired to the Jolly Beach Hotel.