Sean Paul Donates To Alpha School Of Music’s Community Band

By Dani Mallick Thu, April 25 2024, 03:24 PM EST

Sean Paul embraces the ethos of the ‘Upward and Onward’ movement, the guiding motto of the Alpha School of Music.

Sean Paul, through the Sean Paul Foundation, has generously donated US$6,000 towards the Alpha School Of Music Community Band’s eighth season of performances, beginning April 28.

According to a release, the Dutty Rock artist 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.

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.”

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.”

Margaret Little Wilson, Administrator at the Alpha School of Music, receives a warm embrace from Sean Paul during a tour of the institution.

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 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.

On April 28, the Alpha School of Music will begin its eighth season of performances by its Alpha Community Band, an initiative which is focused on the growth and development of communities through access to music performance .

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.