The Alpha School of Music proudly announces the commencement of the eighth season of performances.
The respected Alpha Community Band is set to kick off its 8th season of performances on April 28 at the vibrant Kingston Creative’s Downtown Artwalk. The Alpha Community Band’s eighth season is made possible due to a generous contribution from the Sean Paul Foundation. The performances promise a diverse array of musical genres, often featuring delightful surprises for the audience.
Under the expert guidance of band directors Peter Ashbourne and Leon Ince, the Alpha Community Band provides a unique platform for musicians of all skill levels and backgrounds to unite and learn, practice and perform music together in a one-of-a-kind environment. Additionally, Alpha hosts a Community Band Link Up each season fostering camaraderie among band members, their families and friends.
Expressing gratitude for Sean Paul’s dedication to the Alpha programme and music education, Gay Magnus, Music Director at the institution, remarked, “The Alpha Community Band stands as a vital part of our vision and mission. With the support of Sean Paul, the Alpha School of Music can fulfill its goal of being a strong community asset. We are extremely grateful for his commitment.”
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Launched in 2021 as part of the Community Music initiative, Magnus emphasized that the Alpha Community Band has had a positive impact on the social and cultural landscape in Kingston, stating, “The initiative has been embraced because it is not only focused on music. It works to connect musicians and community members in new ways and enriches our community and fortifies the bonds all while giving access to specialised training.”
Highlighting the symbiotic relationship between community and music development, Sean Paul, a dedicated band patron, remarked, “I am aware of the role our Jamaican communities play in nurturing our musicians and artistes. Without the support of my community, some of the things I have achieved throughout my career would not have been possible. I have always wanted better for my community and Jamaica on a whole, which is why I wholeheartedly support the Alpha Community Band. I’m inviting everyone to join the band, whether or not you are not a musician, or simply come out and be entertained by the talent that exists there.”
The ‘Hold My Hand’ artiste through the Sean Paul Foundation, has generously donated US$6,000 towards the initiative, earmarked to support its upcoming performance April 28 and the season finale in June . Notably, Sean Paul has also contributed funds towards the enhancement of the Music Technology Department, including the development of new studios and rooms for skills training. Additionally, he gifted the Alpha School of Music an acoustic guitar signed by himself and fellow Grammy Award-winning artist Damian Marley.
The Alpha School of Music, which offers associate degrees in music performance and music technology, hosts a community band season each semester. With Sean Paul’s support, Alpha provides the community band with facilities and equipment, expert mentorship by the band directors and sheet music during practice sessions which are held weekly on Tuesdays from 6-8pm in its welcoming courtyard at 26 South Camp Road. Currently comprising twenty-five musicians from 20 years old to retirees with abilities spanning from beginner level to seasoned professionals, the band explores a wide repertoire including pop, blues, classical as well as the vibrant rhythms of reggae, ska and other Caribbean genres.
The Alpha Community Band performs Sunday, April 28, at Kingston Artwalk downtown and the season culminates on June 4 with the annual Sizzlin’ Summer Concert on the Alpha grounds. For more information visit @alphamusicja on social media.
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ABOUT ALPHA INSTITUTE/Alpha School of music
Alpha's 130-year tradition of music education has produced jazz innovators, ska pioneers and reggae icons. We are excited to offer a meaningful and innovative music training curriculum to youth today. We need your help to make it possible. Thank you!
