Virgin Islands Department of Education Announces Quelbe Music Sessions in the St. Thomas-St. John District

The Virgin Islands Department of Education (VIDE) is pleased to announce that students in the St. Thomas-St. John District will soon have a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich culture of Quelbe music. Beginning today and running through November 15, 2024, the district will host a series of engaging and educational Quelbe music sessions for students, highlighting both the traditional and modern expressions of this beloved genre.

The sessions will be conducted by the dynamic Quelbe Resurrection Band, led by Ulysses Pilgrim and Carl Powell Sr., whose passion for preserving and sharing Quelbe music is widely recognized. These sessions will introduce students to the history and cultural significance of Quelbe, with a focus on the origins of the genre, the role of traditional instruments, and how Quelbe has evolved over time.

Throughout the presentations, the band will take students on a musical journey using both traditional non-amplified instruments and modern amplified ones, showcasing the depth and versatility of Quelbe music.

Renowned musician, historian, and storyteller, Mr. Glenn “Kwabena” Davis, will add a unique layer to the experience by guiding discussions on the historical context of the genre. His storytelling expertise will weave together the sounds and rhythms of Quelbe with meaningful insights into the culture that birthed this unique Virgin Islands music.

In addition to listening to the Quelbe Resurrection Band, students will be invited to participate in the sessions, giving them an opportunity to engage with the music directly. This will include performances by student musicians and bands, encouraging an interactive and hands-on learning experience that fosters both appreciation and active involvement in keeping the genre alive.

These sessions aim to inspire a new generation of Quelbe enthusiasts, encourage the formation of student-led Quelbe bands, and preserve this culturally important genre for future generations.

The VIDE extends special thanks to Michelle Rogers-Bully and Corliss Smithen, STTJ District Liaisons, for their invaluable contributions to making this series of presentations possible.

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Downloas press release here:  pdf Press Release 1006 24 VIDE Announces Quelbe Music Sessions in the St Thomas St John District (154 KB)