Legendary music producer Augustus “Gussie” Clarke is spearheading the creation of the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts’ (EMCVPA) first professional-grade, state-of-the-art recording studios.

This long-awaited project is poised to revolutionise the EMCVPA’s ability to train, equip, and launch Jamaica’s next generation of music and audio professionals.

With more than 50 years of experience building and operating world-class music studios, Clarke and his renowned Anchor Team are taking a lead role in the initiative, which for him is both a personal and professional mission and calling.

He said the programme hits a new high note in his storied career.

“My dream is to build these studios with the support of sponsors so Edna Manley doesn’t have to spend a cent of its limited resources,” Clarke said.

He has already committed US$100,000 of his personal funds and has begun procuring key internal construction and acoustic materials.

Acclaimed architect Brian Morris, of Plexus Architects and Planners, has also joined in the mission, contributing sweat equity through the development of architectural designs.

The main studio will be a dynamic, professional-grade environment integrating both analogue and digital technologies. Designed to simulate real-world industry conditions, it will provide students with hands-on experience in performance, recording, and audio engineering.

A smaller studio, tailored for podcasting, interviews, instructional recordings, and demo production will support student projects and offer opportunities for income generation.

Beyond the technical infrastructure, the project emphasises mentorship and apprenticeship. By embedding music industry professionals into the day-to-day functioning of the studios students will gain invaluable experience while building relationships that bridge education and industry.

The design also includes sustainable features, such as solar-powered systems, to support long-term efficiency and reduce operational costs.

EMCVPA, the Caribbean’s only tertiary-level multidisciplinary arts institution, has long stood as the cradle of Jamaica’s cultural evolution, shaping generations of performers, educators, technical experts, and creative leaders. Bands such as C Sharp, Raging Fyah, and EarthKry were formed at the college and have excelled in the international sphere. Alumni like Peter Ashbourne, Petrona Morrison, L’Antoinette Stines, and Owen Blakka Ellis continue to shine on local and global stages. But despite its reputation and rich artistic legacy, the college has never had its own fully equipped recording facility.

As a visionary committed to education and mentorship, Clarke is rallying a network of key industry partners to help bring this transformative project to life. The success of the initiative will depend heavily on the level of sponsorship secured, with construction expected to begin in July 2025.

Interim principal of EMCVPA Dorrett Campbell expressed her deep appreciation for Clarke’s leadership and unwavering commitment. “This is the most tangible move we’ve seen towards making a professional studio a reality. There have been many promises before, but no results and we are truly grateful to Gussie Clarke; his word is backed by action, and that gives us real hope.”

The recording studio project is poised to be a game changer, the impact of the effort is expected to redound to the benefit this existing student community and future generations of creatives.