Renowned Trinidadian vocalist and music educator Alethea Beharry is set to captivate audiences with her signature holiday concert, “Melodies of December: A Christmas Celebration of Classics and Contemporary Music.” The event will take place on December 13 at the Curepe Presbyterian Church, offering a unique musical experience that merges classical masterpieces, contemporary arrangements, and authentic Caribbean Christmas melodies.
Beharry, a 32-year-old Music Festival champion from Chaguanas, describes Christmas as a profoundly meaningful season that evokes both reflection and gratitude. “Christmas music carries nostalgia, warmth and healing all at once,” she revealed, noting that this year holds special significance as she celebrates her first Christmas as a new mother. The concert represents what she calls “a season of hope, light and renewal.”
The artist’s musical journey began in childhood, nurtured by her opera singer mother and supportive father who gifted her first toy piano. Formal training commenced at age four, leading to an early achievement of third place in the Yamaha Keyboard Music Festival. “Music never felt like a hobby; it felt like home,” Beharry recalled of her formative years.
Her professional credentials include reaching the top eight finalists in MusicTT’s Project Spotlight with her single “Back to You” and standout performances as Christine in Brian MacFarlane’s Spectacular Broadway production of The Phantom of the Opera. Beharry credits MacFarlane with significantly pushing her artistic growth, alongside mentors including Glenda Collens, Dr. Charles Brunner, and the late Lenore Mahase-Samaroo.
What distinguishes Beharry is her remarkable versatility across genres—classical, gospel, Broadway, jazz, rock and pop. “Each genre strengthened a different part of my voice,” she explained. “It taught me flexibility, emotional honesty, and storytelling.” This adaptability earned her the career-defining role of Christine, which she describes as “life-changing” for revealing her previously unrealized capabilities.
The December concert will feature collaborations with esteemed artists including LeAndra Head, Michelle Xavier, Sean Sadaphal, and Gregory Pantin. Most notably, the event will showcase performances by Beharry’s own students, some making their major debut. “My students worked incredibly hard this year, and they deserve a stage to shine on,” she stated, emphasizing her commitment to nurturing new talent.
Balancing her roles as performer, educator, and mother, Beharry emphasizes intentional planning and self-care. “When I take care of myself, I’m able to give my best to my students, my audiences and my family,” she noted.
Looking forward, Beharry envisions international expansion, more original music releases, and establishing a larger training facility for aspiring musicians. Her advice to young performers emphasizes authenticity: “Your gift is uniquely yours, and the world needs the story only you can tell.”
Audiences can anticipate an evening of emotional resonance and musical excellence on December 13. “I hope they leave with full hearts,” Beharry shared. “I want them to experience comfort, joy, nostalgia and a little bit of magic.”