Band competition wants to be ‘Champs’ of school music

Jamaica’s Best School Band (JBSB) has an ambitious vision — to become for young Jamaican musicians what the annual boys and girls’ championships has become for the country’s track and field athletes.

As JBSB prepares for its 14th season, organisers say it is increasingly looking beyond the stage and competition to play a greater role in developing music programmes in Jamaican schools and creating pathways into the creative industries.

“One of the biggest challenges facing music programmes in Jamaican schools is access — to instruments, resources, trained personnel, and consistent opportunities for students to develop their skills,” said JBSB representative Rayven Amani.

She noted that music programmes must often compete with other priorities for limited resources, while some parents, students and administrators may not immediately see how participation in a school band can lead to a sustainable career. Exposure to the professional music industry is another area JBSB hopes to address. According to Amani, young musicians need to learn much more than how to play an instrument. They also need knowledge of performance, professionalism, intellectual property, the music business and the range of careers available throughout the creative economy. JBSB’s school tour is expected to play an important role in that effort by bringing professional musicians, educators and industry practitioners directly into schools for mentorship, training and workshops.

The organisation is also seeking practical ways to assist schools that lack adequate resources. Ena Barclay Academy will become the first school to receive instruments from JBSB during Season 14. Amani said the initiative represents the organisation’s desire to go beyond discovering talented students and helping create an environment in which that talent can develop.

JBSB also plans to engage school administrators to gather information about existing music programmes, available resources and the challenges schools are experiencing.

“JBSB cannot solve all the issues on its own, but can be a catalyst,” Amani said.

Season 14 is also expected to bring greater visibility to participating schools and musicians. With entries scheduled to close on October 22, Amani is encouraging school bands and young musicians to seize the opportunity.

“Talent is the starting point. You will also need discipline and dedication. Put in the work, cooperate with your music teachers and band directors, and the stage will be yours,” she said.