By Pamela Fernandez
pamela@caymannetnews.com

The Paseo and Gardenia Court at Camana Bay came alive with the rhythmic sounds of Caribbean music when the first ever Kids’ Caribbean Music Workshop was held last Saturday 26, September from 9:00am to 1:00pm. Children from ages 3 to 12 years old flocked to the venue carrying instruments like tambourines and maracas.

Bona Fide Cayman, a live band with a passion for children and young people, conducted the workshops and provided the children with a multi-cultural introduction to the percussion and vocal sounds of the Caribbean.

Rennard and Isadora of Bona Fide, upon seeing the enthusiastic children, recalled their own upbringing. “When I was very young I was so much into music that I learned singing long before I could talk”, said Isadora. “And I experimented with different sounds by using my mother’s pots and pans when I was a kid,” added Rennard.

The participating kids were split up into age groups and time slots that allowed each child to get involved with all of the day’s activities. The basics of reggae, calypso and soca rhythms were taught through the use of tambourines, maracas and conga drums. Popular regional songs and nursery rhymes were also utilised to encourage the children’s vocal talents. As for children who are more into the arts and crafts, bandana colouring and instrument making (from recycled objects) activities kept them busy and entertained.

But what excited the kids most among all the other activities were the open mic jam session, the calypso and limbo dance lessons and the group performances, where they were able to showcase what they have learned from the workshop.

Proud parents had a great time watching their kids perform with so much energy and passion. Some of them were even surprised to have discovered their kid’s talent for singing and instrument playing.

“We are happy that we were able to spread enthusiasm for regional music and we have given the children the chance to be musicians. Hopefully, the workshop inspired them enough to become great artists someday,” said Molly Braggs, Events Manager, Dart Realty.

Camana Bay, Grand Cayman’s cosmopolitan community holds interesting events and activities for both locals and tourists to enjoy. For a complete list of events and other details, do check out www.camanabay.com.