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The St. Lucia Jazz Festival is THE premier Caribbean MUSIC
festival.
This is true, despite controversy regarding the ratio of jazz
– soul – R&B (and not so jazz – soul –
R&B) artists’ chosen to perform, and other internal
politics which occasionally cause concern.
Flight delays not only affected the schedule of a few stage appearances,
but also affected my stop-over journey from the UK via Barbados
and my return to the UK via Barbados.
Despite these relatively minor hiccups, I would travel to St.
Lucia every week given the opportunity.
Of course, such a grand festival could not work without the right
musicians.
Whether they be Jazz, soul or other, musicians of all
genres seem to shine in St. Lucia.
Many patrons who attend this
festival are not major music lovers; they just come to join in
the fun.
Many are just addicted to the energy and colourful vibe
this festival has to offer.
Lucian’s play a big part in the success of St. Lucia jazz.
Not only are they passionate about their island;
their friendly
and open nature is the vital ingredient that gives the St. Lucia
Jazz Festival the edge over many other festivals.
With unmatched beautiful outdoor venues such as Fond D’Or
Nature Heritage Park, Pigeon Island,
Jazz on the Square and Jazz on the Beach, how can anyone afford
to miss this event?
The beauty of Pigeon Island
This spectacular outdoor venue just seems to be ‘made for
music’.
Pigeon Island is not only naturally beautiful, the
St. Lucia Jazz Festival organisers
utilise every square inch of
space to great effect (with more than enough space left to chill).
With guaranteed musical delights, sun, food, drinks, souvenirs
and
clean air-conditioned rest rooms on offer, what
more could festival patrons ask for?
Credit has to be given to both sound and lighting engineers.
Sound quality is second-to-none, with group and solo instrumentation
being delivered cleanly.
Individual voices, whether backup, or
solo can be heard and recognised.
The speed at which musician changeovers or impromptu appearances
are managed is also exemplary.
Overall, sound levels are extremely well balanced considering
the size and logistics of this venue.
As dusk falls, the stage and surrounding areas are creatively
lit
to give both patrons and photographers the best
view of an already stunning backdrop.
Robin Francis
© Michael Valentine Studio Ltd.
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