July 2012 – Barbados Jazz Society raises funds for the Barbados Community College Music Department

One of the mandates of the Barbados Jazz Society is the support of up and coming young Jazz musicians through the music program at the Barbados Community College.

The first fundraiser was held in July at the Member’s Mingle at the home of President Anne Smith where a trio of BCC-trained musicians entertained over 40 members and guests. Saxophonist Mylon Clarke, guitarist Darren Massiah, and bassist Lorin Brathwaite offered an interesting mix of old standards like Ellington’s “Take the A Train”  and Coltrane’s “Impressions” along with Caribbean renditions of newer pieces such as “Blue Bossa” and “C-Jam Blues”. The  highlight was an original composition by the guitarist Mylon Clarke entitled “Polka Dot Panties”.

Members gave generously toward the instruments fund and the presentation to the BCC was made on the spot. The evening ended with a rousing Jazz Jeopardy Quiz put together by BJS Executive members Cheryl Bertrand and Barry Taylor, with two teams showing off their Jazz knowledge.

The BJS will be holding more such evenings to add to the student instruments fund.

February 19, 2012 – Barbados Jazz Society presents the Mike Sealy Group with Canadian Jazz Pianist Steve Koven

The musical synergies of eminent Barbadian guitarist Mike Sealy and Canadian pianist Steve Koven thrilled a packed house of jazz lovers at Divi Southwinds Sunday evening. Bassist Cecil Bascombe and drummer Vere Gibson set a steady groove for Mike and Steve. The Barbados Jazz Society thanks  patrons and partner Divi Southwinds for their support.