THE Jamaican Folk Singers will be presenting its 45th Anniversary Concert Season at The Little Theatre, Tom Redcam Avenue, St Andrew from Friday, September 14, to Sunday, September 16, 2012.

The season will feature the group’s journey through its development and growth, its experiences of collecting music on our heritage, work songs and the fellowship evident in time of death, as well as commentary on the differences in lifestyle between “Then” and “Now”, examining courting, relationships, gossip and general socialising.

The Jamaican Folk Singers — which was founded in 1967 by Dr Olive Lewin — has survived through the years to remain true to its mission, which includes unearthing and exposing the beauty and artistic worth of Jamaica’s folk music heritage. It has been 44 years of overcoming challenges and helping to keep alive the folk foundations of Jamaica’s music, being a bridge between the senior citizens who have nurtured the values and lore of old Jamaica and the youth who are the hope and architects of tomorrow.

The Jamaican Folk Singers began as a group of friends who were invited by Olive Lewin to share her enthusiasm for Jamaica’s folk music, which developed with her experience in collecting and researching Jamaica’s folk music. From the group’s first public performance until now, there is focus on maintaining respect for our traditions and for the people who have kept them alive.

With a repertoire of over 200 songs arranged by the founder, Dr. Olive Lewin, the group has sung to enthusiastic audiences in Jamaica and several other countries including Martinique, Barbados, Cuba, Mexico, USA, Germany, Canada, Great Britain, South Africa, Trinidad and Tobago and Argentina.

Over the years, the group has arranged all island tours – giving free performances in markets, schools, church halls and town centres across the island. These tours have been referred to by members as some of the most rewarding experiences – being welcomed by Jamaicans in the nooks and crannies of the island.

The 45th Anniversary Concert Season presents another opportunity for the group to use Jamaica’s folk music and its messages to uplift Jamaica whilst highlighting some of the values of “old Jamaica”, with the music encouraging respect and understanding among people of different backgrounds.

As part of the season, there will be a Matinee performance on Saturday, September 15 at 3:00pm – specifically for children in children’s homes and senior citizens residing at senior citizens residences. This provides an opportunity for two very important sectors of the society to share with the group as they present aspects of Jamaica’s folk music culture. Organizations or individuals who are interested in supporting this venture by sponsoring blocks of tickets can advise the group via e-mail: jamaicanfolksingers67@gmail.com.