The School of Music at the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts in St Andrew has rolled out a full slate of events to commemorate its 50th anniversary.

The celebrations kicked off last Sunday at the school’s auditorium with a service of thanksgiving and celebration.

This event highlighted what the institution has been renowned for over the past half a century. That of producing a high standard of singers and player of instruments.

The service was punctuated with a wide range of music, reflecting the varied genres which are celebrated at the School of Music. These included a ‘saxy’ take on Thelonius Monk’s Reflection performed by the School’s saxophone Choir. The sweet sound of pan music resonated throughout the auditorium as soloist Reajhaun Baptiste performed the Allegro by Fiocco accompanied by Ann McNamee on piano. Apel — an African drum call — would bring the spirit of the Motherland to the service as the Edna MAnley College Hand Drummers brought a lively beat to the proceedings. One could easily have been in New Orleans when the Wind ensemble blew up a storm with the nego spiritual Were You There.

The voice was not to be outdone as a seven-member chorus performing Seasons of Love for the musical Rent,were a treat.

Performances aside the service served as the launching pad for the year-long celebrations which will see activities including The School of Music’s final year shows, A performance by world renowed Jamaican-born barritone Sir Willard White on August 14, public lectures; a recital and piano master class conducted by Dr Kaestner Robertson; the school’s Caribbean heritage concert, carol service and faculty recitals covering the genres of jazz, classical, and a general recital.

The year’s celebration will round out with the 50th anniversary benefit concert featuring graduates and friends of the School of Music.