Now, 15 years after, organizers have been making certain that this focus remains a priority and have therefore organized another major development workshop that will be held on Friday, 24th June, at the St. Kitts Marriott Hotel, in Frigate Bay.
Coordinator of the event, and Music Specialist in the Department of Culture for St. Kitts, Captain Nigel Williams, who also heads the Defense Force Band on the island, said that his committee is hoping to attract approximately 75 participants this year.
Captain Williams indicated that those invited to part take, include musicians and budding musicians from, not only St. Kitts, but sister island Nevis as well. He said it is important to make the training available to all musicians and artistes from both parts of the Federation.
To accommodate the attendance of all participants, the organizers have agreed to provide free transportation on Friday, leaving from the Bay Road entrance of the Sands Complex. Williams cautioned that the transportation will depart the pick-up point, promptly at 12:00pm, so those hoping to use the facilities should ensure to arrive on time.
The workshop is due to start at 1:00pm.
Mr. Williams revealed that the facilitators for the 2011 training will be mainly from the visiting group, known as East Meets West, comprised of experienced musicians from both the East and West Coast of the United States. Some of the trainers/facilitators, stated Williams, have previously performed at the Music Festival and have also provided their in-kind services in the past.
The group is made up of some of the most talented contemporary jazz musicians.
East Meets West, which will appear on the Saturday night of the 3 night Music Festival, is expected to perform for the trainees, for a short period, to demonstrate some practical aspects of the art of music, before they venture into the theoretical aspects of the training.
Captain Williams further explained that the workshop is designed to support local artistes and musicians, providing an opportunity for them to gain first-hand knowledge, advice, guidance and tips on how to perfect their art, from experienced performers.
The Music Specialist said that the workshop is open to anyone who wishes to benefit from such training, therefore anyone who is thinking of a career in music or who has a love for music, may attend.
There is no registration fee required but prospective participants should contact the Department of Culture at Port Zante, 467 1415, to confirm their attendance.
The St. Kitts Music festival runs from Thursday 23rd to Saturday 25th June, at the Warner Park Stadium. Tickets for the vent are now available at NR Sales and The Ticket Shop on Fort Street and also at the Festivals Secretariat, at Port Zante.