What do these names George Victory (Trinidadian) and Roland Prince (Antiguan) mean to The Birdsong Academy? Nothing AND everything in the same breath. They both transitioned to the other realm of existence within 48 hours of each other this week. They were both world recognized musicians/ guitar players. One is known for his work with Arrow, The Fatback band, and as session/live player for a host of North American artistes. The other is one of the few Caribbean musicians/ (in particular guitarists) to record and play with the legendary jazz drummer Elvin Jones. (bassist David Happy Williams being one other that I know).
At some point in both of their early years, someone heard their talent, and gave/ afforded them a chance, and a space to hone and develop their crafts. The Birdsong Academy has been doing this for a number of years. Just look at:
- Nyol Mansell - Berklee College of Music
- Derrianne Dyett - The Prince Claus Conservatoire
- Alisha Wallace - Tblisi State Medical University
This is just the tip of the iceberg. Just imagine the number of lives these talented young people would have touched and positively impacted on their journeys, nurtured and developed through the Birdsong Academy. So congratulations Nicholas Jones. Welcome to the world of Higher Education, in Music, following in the footsteps of all of the above mentioned.
We must give our young people a chance, and space to develop and express themselves.
The Birdsong Academy MUST STAY!!!
