Keeping up with musicians of Jamaica

Did you know Caribbean music extends beyond reggae? Classical music, also known as Art Music, is very much appreciated in the Caribbean. This page highlights prominent musicians who have dedicated their lives to Art Music in the Caribbean.

David Reid

A Jamaican tenor who became the national treasure when he was featured as the first tenor to record, what became, the national anthem.

David Reid’s thoughts on classical music from “Mike’s moments of…”:

Every time I sit down and listen to Elijah…it covers so many angles, so many facets…it’s my favorite oratorio

The business that classical music is a taffy nose thing is ridiculous. You’re depriving yourself of all the more wonderful music that there is. - David Reid, tenor

Please don’t take classical music too seriously. Just listen to it, and it will pour over you. It is music and it is beautiful. - David Reid, tenor

I have enjoyed both classical and pop all of my life and I think I am the better off for it. No prejudice. - David Reid, tenor

The spirit is there, the story is there. Just listen to it. Don’t condemn it. Spend the ten minutes… On those records, every single piece of classical music is where my inspiration came from. - David Reid, tenor

Enjoy more of David Reid’s story during Mike Sean Harris’s podcast released August 23, 2020:

Culture Shock - Online Concert Bali to Kingston

Culture Shock is an interactive live show dedicated to showcasing those who have shocked the culture locally and internationally. Jamaican musicians include Rosina Moder-recorder, Keturah Gray-flute, and Janine JKhul-voice and co-host.

Congratulations to ALL of the performing musicians! Watch their performances at:

Jamaican Composers Honored on Culture Shock

Composers Peter Ashbourne, Marjorie Whylie, and Jon Williams all in one place! These legends share their musical stories, performances, and current projects on culture shock.

Watch this delightful discussion