On 15 October the Royal Philharmonic, Britain’s prestigious symphony orchestra, was joined on stage in London by the Antigua and Barbuda Youth Symphony Orchestra (ABYSO). The young Antiguans’ performance was a result of a partnership between the Royal Philharmonic and ABYSO that specifically aims to create cross-cultural musical opportunities. 

At the heart of the musical link between the United Kingdom and Antigua and Barbuda is British cellist Sheku Kanneh-Mason. In 2016, at just 17 years old, he became the first Black musician to win the BBC Young Musician award since its launch in 1978. The young prodigy went on to great success, releasing several albums and even playing at Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding.

The Kanneh-Mason family are of Antiguan descent, and in 2017 collaborated with the Antigua and Barbuda High Commission in London to participate in a series of school concerts on the small island nation titled Playing to Inspire. The showcases garnered an overwhelmingly positive response from young people. The creation of the ABYSO soon followed, as a natural extension of this experience.

ABYSO’s mission is to empower young people, regardless of their socio-economic background, through classical music and at no cost to the budding musicians. 

"The orchestra is a place where you can have genuine teenage fun," says 17 year old Orlando Gordon, who joined the orchestra several years ago with no prior musical experience. "Even if you don't know how to play or read music, they will take the time to teach you and it's all for free." 

Despite resource challenges, Claudine Benjamin, the orchestra's chief operating officer remains determined to continue advocating for ABYSO. In order to ensure maximum accessibility and impact, young Antiguan’s who don’t have transportation are picked up from their home to enable them to attend practices. The only requirement for joining the orchestra - self discipline and dedication. 

"People saw value in what we wanted to do, which was to impact the lives of young people through music," Benjamin said.

In addition to their partnership with the Royal Philharmonic, ABYSO is collaborating with The Commonwealth Resounds, and The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music, among others. These partnerships facilitate the provision of instruments and other supplies, long term mentorship and training opportunities for the young musicians.

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