In a strategic move to elevate artistic standards for the upcoming 2026 Festival of the Arts, Grenada has successfully trained 50 primary and secondary school choir instructors through an intensive professional development program. The comprehensive workshop, held at the Public Workers Union building in St. George’s, focused on enhancing vocal pedagogy and choral leadership capabilities across the nation’s educational institutions.
Voice Specialist Valarie Daniel-Burkhardt, renowned for her work with professionals ranging from broadcasters to politicians, led the technical training sessions. The curriculum encompassed critical vocal techniques including breath control, vocal projection, diction refinement, rhythmic precision, and anatomical awareness of vocal mechanisms. Participants gained practical methodologies for improving singing proficiency while preventing vocal strain and long-term damage.
Assistant facilitator Lucinda Ogilvie emphasized the universal relevance of vocal training, noting its importance not only for educators and students but also for performing artists across musical genres. “Understanding vocal mechanics is essential for sustainable artistic expression,” Ogilvie stated. “This knowledge protects vocal instruments from deterioration while enhancing performance quality.”
The initiative, orchestrated by the Division of Culture within the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Economy and Culture, represents the government’s commitment to cultural development. Chief Cultural Officer Kelvin Jacob explicitly linked the training to national artistic standards, urging participants to implement their newfound expertise to cultivate exceptional school choirs.
Educators expressed unanimous appreciation for the program’s practical applicability. Donovan Richards, Principal of Hermitage Government School, confirmed the immediate utility of the exercises for student development. Teacher Kellyann Gunpot similarly endorsed the capacity-building initiative, particularly as Grenada prepares for the return of its premier cultural showcase.
Cultural Officer Arlene Joseph reported overwhelming participant engagement and readiness to guide choirs toward excellence. The program concluded with formal certification ceremonies presided over by Parliamentary Secretary Senator Quinc Britton and Chief Cultural Officer Jacob, symbolizing the official endorsement of this cultural upskilling endeavor.