The Antigua Barbuda Festivals Commission recently launched a program to encourage the next generation of local artists: the Junior Calypso + Soca Stars initiative. The aim of this project is to train young talent in the emblematic genres of Calypso and Soca, offering them comprehensive artistic guidance. Led by Peetron Thomas and Tyreke “Vicious” Lewis, it helps to ensure that this musical heritage is passed on to future generations.
A structured program for young talent
The Antigua Barbuda Festivals Commission has designed this initiative to identify and mentor young singers from primary and secondary schools in Antigua and Barbuda. Through school visits, private coaching sessions, mentoring and public performances, participants acquire the essential skills to express themselves on stage. Peetron Thomas emphasizes the importance of this training: “beyond the Carnival stage, we help these young people gain confidence and connect with their cultural heritage.”
The Antigua Barbuda Festivals Commission ‘s commitment to this project testifies to its desire to perpetuate these musical forms. This initiative is a valuable opportunity for young artists to develop and enhance the country’s cultural heritage. By taking part in this program, young talents not only learn to sing, they also explore the deep roots and history of Calypso and Soca, which have played a key role in the cultural and social expression of the Caribbean islands.
Supervision by experienced professionals
Peetron Thomas: a committed mentor
An artist and music educator, Peetron Thomas stands out for his commitment to training young singers. He accompanies them all the way, from their initiation to their first performances. As a seasoned musician, he emphasizes the importance of discipline, vocal work and creative writing.
Tyreke “Vicious” Lewis: international experience
A well-known figure on the Soca scene, Tyreke “Vicious” Lewis uses his experience to inspire and guide young talent. “Music builds character and strengthens our connection to our roots,” he explains. His involvement enables participants to learn from established artists. By sharing his own experiences on stage and the challenges he has encountered, he helps young people better grasp the demands of the professional music scene.
How the program works
Identifying and supporting young talent
The program begins with visits to schools to identify pupils with a passion for Calypso and Soca. With their parents’ agreement, these young people are invited to join the project. This selection process ensures that participants are genuinely motivated and willing to learn and invest in their artistic development.
Personalized coaching
Participants benefit from individual sessions in vocal coaching, text writing and stage techniques. These training sessions are designed to develop their artistic abilities and ease in public. Particular attention is paid to composing lyrics that reflect themes relevant to West Indian society, enabling young artists to express their vision of the world through their music.
Performance and community involvement
Young artists perform at local events, giving them the opportunity to gain experience before entering the Junior Calypso Monarch and Junior Soca Monarch competitions. This approach fosters both their artistic progression and their personal development. The stage is an essential part of their training, enabling them to familiarize themselves with the audience and learn to deal with stage fright.
What’s more, the Junior Calypso + Soca Stars initiative goes beyond musical training. It encourages young people to get involved in the community by taking part in cultural events and interacting with musicians from previous generations, thus creating an intergenerational transmission of knowledge.
A lasting impact on local culture
The impact of this initiative is not limited to the young artists themselves. By nurturing new talent and giving them a platform to express themselves, the program contributes to the preservation and evolution of Calypso and Soca. These musical genres have always been powerful means of expression for the people of the Caribbean, often dealing with social, political and historical themes.
The program also raises public awareness of the importance of these musical traditions, encouraging families and communities to actively support their young artists. The initiative thus strengthens the bond between generations and stimulates renewed interest in local music.
How can you get involved?
The Antigua Barbuda Festivals Commission is aiming to welcome at least ten new participants this year, from primary and secondary schools. To register a child, contact the organizing team by phone or WhatsApp at (268) 775-1595. Registration is open to all young people interested in getting involved in music, whatever their level of experience.
A promising initiative for the future
The Junior Calypso + Soca Stars program illustrates the Antigua Barbuda Festivals Commission’s commitment to the transmission of musical heritage. By supporting these young talents, this initiative contributes to the vitality of the local artistic scene and the enhancement of the country’s cultural traditions.
The project also offers the prospect of advancement for young people wishing to pursue a career in the music industry. Thanks to the experience gained and the contacts made with industry professionals, some of the participants could well become the future figures of Calypso and Soca in Antigua and Barbuda and beyond.
