Christmas at Cave Hill Concert: A spectacular showcase of talent

Saturday night’s inaugural Christmas at Cave Hill Concert delivered a spectacular showcase of talent, setting an impressive standard for future events. The University of the West Indies (UWI) Graduation Tent came alive with powerfully delivered notes as outstanding past and current students of the Bachelor of Fine Arts Music Programme, guided by Dr. Stefan Walcott, were among the stellar lineup spreading Christmas cheer.

Jomo Slusher, more commonly known for his prowess on the trombone, took on conducting duties with the UWI Blackbirds Big Band under his charge. Among the standout products of the programme in the ensemble were pannist Kaylee Allman, saxophonists Zukeli Inniss, who recently graduated with First Class Honours, and Daniel Harvey. Joined by their bandmates, they took a break from the traditional approach to classics like My Favourite Things, I’ll Be Home for Christmas, and Santa Claus Is Coming to Town jazzing them up with fresh arrangements.

It was not just the instrumentalists who basked in the glow of the limelight. The first half featured brilliant showings by their vocalists with a series of solo performances. Maiella Best was in a fantastic voice with her rendition of Silent Night.

Overcoming her nerves Zaria Gibbs delivered an energetic performance of the up-tempo Mary’s Boy Child. Though Mariah Carey’s All I Want for Christmas is You is one of the most played for the Christmas season, the treatment it was given in Jeliah Boyce’s rendition heightened its entertainment value. Also gracing the stage was Kaiela Wall with What Child is This.

The Cavite Chorale entertained with a medley of popular Christmas tracks, culminating in a delightful island flavour with Christopher Grant’s original song St. Vincent Christmas which narrated what Christmas on that island is like. He was followed by fellow choir member Ian Bailey with a comedic performance of Bring a Rum, where he feigned drunkenness by forgetting the lyrics. He was so convincing he had some audience members fooled by the ruse.

The band concluded the first half with an upbeat tribute to Richard Stoute featuring Rocksteady Christmas Party, followed by their renditions of Drink Ah Rum, and the ever-popular local favourite Maizie by RPB.

The closing segment was equally as exciting with G- Syndicate Band wowing the audience with the harmonious blend of their voices. Adding their own unique spin, they encouraged attendees to singalong as they emphatically delivered John King’s Put Christ in Your Christmas, The First Noel, Mary Did You Know and This Christmas.

Making a special guest appearance was Anthony ‘Gabby’ Carter. The natural-born storyteller showcased another dimension of his talent, dropping a few jokes during his appearance. Putting effective use to his early foundation in choral singing, he confirmed that he is more than a calypsonian with his delivery of The Christmas Song and Oh Holy Night. Exciting arrangements revitalised Emmerton, Bridgetown, and Dr Cassandra.

Beyond the music, the award-winning dance troupe Dancin’ Africa presented two Christmas themed pieces. Host for the evening was Jennifer Walker who had patrons in stitches throughout. The production concluded at 10 p.m. with all the featured acts returning to the stage for the grand finale. (STT)