ANGUILLA
Welcome to Richès Karayib, your gateway to the cultural richness of the Caribbean.
Today, we are honored to introduce Darius James, Dominican-born, founder of the Anguilla Music Academy (AMA).
With a deep passion for music and education, Darius has made significant contributions to the musical landscape of Anguilla. In this exclusive interview, he shares his journey, inspirations, and ambitions for the future of music in Anguilla.
WHO I AM
My journey in music began at a young age, I taught myself to play drums at age 12 by listening to the radio. Growing up, I was always surrounded by music, and it became a central part of my life, I played in church and was a member of the local gospel group Genesis. After graduating high school in 1997, I joined the calypso band Versatile, playing drums on Carnival Cruise Lines for three years. It was like finding my first love.
Over the years, I pursued various opportunities in music, which led to the founding of the Anguilla Music Academy.
My inspiration
It comes from the vibrant music culture of Anguilla and the wider Caribbean. The rich musical heritage of our region motivates me to provide the best tools and opportunities for local artists to compete on the global stage.
About Anguilla Music Academy (AMA)
AMA is a nonprofit organization aimed at enhancing young people’s creative abilities. We function like an incubator, helping young talents express themselves creatively and develop their skills professionally.
Our Services
Anguilla Music Academy (AMA)
The Anguilla Music Academy provides music education and training, aiming to enhance the creative abilities of young talents.
AMA Recording
This facility offers two world-class recording studios for professional music production and engineering.
Grammy Museum Gallery
An affiliate of the GRAMMY Museum®, it features exhibits and educational programs related to music history and culture.
AMA Hall
A versatile multi-purpose event space for performances, workshops, and community events.
A major project
The Music Revolution project has been a major success, with over 100 students participating over four years. Many of these students are now actively involved in the music industry, which is a testament to the impact of our work.
Advice for Beginners
My advice is to be patient with the process and be willing to make sacrifices.
Success doesn’t come overnight; it requires time, dedication, and a lot of hard work.
Always be proactive in seeking opportunities to showcase your talent.
OUR DREAM
My dream project with AMA is the incubator/accelerator program, allowing artists to dedicate six months full-time to their careers. This program would provide financial support and professional development opportunities, giving artists the resources they need to succeed.
