On April 17th, the Caribbean Sea breeze swept through the open gallery, the blue billowing gowns of the Kanneh-Mason’s (KM) sisters, and the crevices of the historic island home. Once again, the Estate House of Jumby Bay was graced with the musical eloquence and energy of the KM family. The festoon lights, along with the rich reds and browns of the instruments, created an amber glow that evening as Ms. Bernadette Sherman welcomed about 40 guests to the now-annual event. For several years, the Kanneh-Masons have thanked Jumby Bay for their generous donations through their musical blend of strings and piano.
With the mood set, the brothers and sisters gave an intense, rigorous, but balanced rendition of a Shostakovich Piano Concerto. Konya’s fingers tapped each piano key with intention, Sheku’s eyebrows twitched and quivered to every vibration of his cello, and Braimah commanded his violin as he held an unwavering stance. The night continued with each composition played better than the last; from the opening concerto to the uplifting sax solo of folk songs and to the Vivaldi piece harmoniously blending the violin and piano. The concert was interwoven with input change to performances from guests, both local and foreign, the Antigua and Barbuda Youth Symphony Orchestra (ABYSO) and saxophonist Jess Gillam.
Their presentation was a reminder of how giving back to all areas, including education, is such a critical and meaningful endeavor. This is the type of news worth writing about – what is going on in the community, how young people are embracing the arts, and how there is so much more that can be done with developing talent.
The Jumby Bay Fund is proud to be a major sponsor of “Playing to Inspire,” a program for young and aspiring musicians in Antigua and Barbuda, and of the Kanneh-Mason family who contribute to its success. We aim to continue this musical legacy.
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