Meet Jamie
Composer, Conductor, and Arranger Who Continues to Inspire Find out more about our 2024 Antigua Trip
Jamie Smith
We are delighted to announce the return of Jamie, a highly versatile British composer, conductor, and arranger, for his second visit to Antigua. Jamie is currently studying composition at the Royal College of Music under Kenneth Hesketh and Simon Holt, while also studying tuba with Pete Smith. His exceptional talent was recognised in 2023 when he won the BBC Young Composer of the Year for his piece “Into Oblivion” for voice and electronics. In collaboratiion with the UCL’s Biome Health Project, he was commissioned to write for the BBC Concert Orchestra, drawing inspiration from artist Luke Jerram’s ‘Gaia’ —a replica of our planet created using detailed NASA imagery of the Earth’s surface. He looks forwards to a performance on Saturday 7 September in Nottingham’s Albert Hall as part of the BBC Proms Across the UK series.
BBC Young Composer of the Year Winner
Jamie’s versatility extends beyond composition; he is an accomplished arranger with notable performances across the country. One of his most significant achievements was arranging music for the Commonwealth Day Service at Westminster Abbey in 2021.
In July 2023, Jamie partnered with the High Commissioner of Antigua and Barbuda and The Commonwealth Resounds to mentor students from the Antigua and Barbuda Youth Symphony Orchestra. This experience was profoundly impactful for both Jamie and the students. Reflecting on the experience, Jamie said, “Mentoring these talented young musicians was incredibly rewarding. Their enthusiasm and dedication to music were truly inspiring.” In November, Jamie continued his work with ABYSO during their visit to London, conducting a performance of his piece ‘Fiesta’ in Marlborough House as part of the Commonwealth Year of Youth.
This July, Jamie will return to Antigua to teach composition and looks forward to working with the High Commissioner and Commonwealth Resounds to nurture the young talent of the Caribbean.
We are excited to see the continued positive impact Jamie will have on the young musicians in Antigua. Stay tuned for more updates on Jamie’s activities and contributions to the Commonwealth Resounds.
“Mentoring these talented young musicians was incredibly rewarding. Their enthusiasm and dedication to music was truly inspiring.”
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