In alignment with our mission to expand music education and foster cultural exchange, The Concert Chorale of Harlem (TCCH) recently conducted a free three-day musical workshop in Jamaica. This philanthropic initiative was organized in honor of two prestigious concerts that will take place on November 16 and 17, 2024, in collaboration with the Philharmonic Orchestra of Jamaica (POJ). The workshop was an opportunity for TCCH to extend its reach and provide valuable training for the musicians, preparing them for their first-ever operatic collaboration.
L-R: Chauncey Packer, Rodari Simpson, Laquita Mitchell and Dr. Tyrone Clinton, arrive in Jamaica to put on a free, 3 day musical workshop with The Philharmonic Orchestra of Jamaica.
Workshop Details and Participation
The workshop, although anticipated to be a larger gathering, saw the participation of about 20 members from the Philharmonic Orchestra of Jamaica, representing various sections including strings, brass, and percussion. Despite the lower-than-expected turnout, the event proved to be a meaningful experience for those who attended. The focus was on developing skills in timing and understanding the nuances of playing alongside opera singers—a skill set that is crucial yet often overlooked in traditional orchestral training.
Under the expert guidance of TCCH’s Founder and Creative Director, Rodari Simpson, Grammy-nominated soprano Laquita Mitchell, three-time Grammy winner Chauncey Packer, and guest conductor Dr. Tyrone Clinton, the participants engaged in intensive sessions designed to enhance their proficiency and adaptability. Dr. Clinton, the founder and artistic director of The Unsung Collective Inc., brought a wealth of experience, having previously conducted at prestigious institutions and led the first predominantly Black ensemble at the Mostly Mozart Festival at Lincoln Centre. His leadership during the workshop provided the Jamaican musicians with new perspectives on performance techniques, particularly in the realm of opera.
Rehearsing Recondita Armonia from Tosca by Puccini. Tenor Chauncey Packer and Conductor Tyrone Clinton
Community Engagement and Cultural Exchange
The workshop was not limited to members of the Philharmonic Orchestra of Jamaica. TCCH extended invitations to other local musical groups, including members of the local military band, fostering a broader cultural exchange. This inclusivity underscored the workshop’s goal of enriching the entire Jamaican music community, not just the orchestra. By bringing together diverse musicians, the workshop created a platform for shared learning and collaboration, laying the groundwork for future artistic partnerships.
Rodari Simpson, reflecting on the significance of the event, shared his excitement: “This exciting collaboration is extremely dear to me. As a fellow Jamaican, I have experienced the power of being a part of the music community. These series of masterclasses and workshops are intended to add value to the music community here in Jamaica, but even more so to the next generation of musicians. Being able to bring together the leaders in the jazz and classical music community will only unveil the possibilities within the space. As artists, why shouldn’t we be the ones to lead us to have the music exchange?”
Andrew Ho of the Philharmonic Orchestra of Jamaica echoed Simpson's sentiments, emphasizing the impact of the workshop on the orchestra's future performances: "We are excited at the prospect of the three-day workshop with members of The Concert Chorale of Harlem to learn new techniques in opera performance and to work with acclaimed opera singers, some of whom have performed in prestigious productions like the Metropolitan Opera and Carnegie Hall. The workshop will definitely increase the proficiency and versatility of the orchestra."
A Prelude to Éclat Opera
This initiative, aimed at enriching the local music community, serves as a prelude to the highly anticipated Éclat Opera: An Evening of Arias, Classics, Spirituals, and Jazz at the Little Theater in November. The workshop was designed to prepare local musicians for this grand event, ensuring that they are equipped to perform at their best alongside some of the world’s most renowned opera singers. Through this training, TCCH hopes to foster a valuable exchange of skills and techniques that will resonate far beyond the upcoming performances.
Looking Forward
TCCH’s free workshop in Jamaica is a testament to our commitment to nurturing musical talent and fostering cross-cultural collaborations. By providing Jamaican musicians with the opportunity to learn from distinguished artists, we are not only preparing them for specific performances but also contributing to their long-term growth as musicians. This workshop is a meaningful step in our ongoing efforts to expand music education and support the global music community, one initiative at a time. As we look forward to the Éclat Opera and future collaborations, we remain dedicated to our mission of using music as a bridge to connect, educate, and inspire.
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