Music education could soon become a far bigger part of Saint Lucia’s future, as a pilot programme aimed at creating a national music education system gets underway through the Ministry of Equity’s Summer Camp initiative.
The three-day programme, delivered by Music Hub in partnership with the Ministry, is exposing children and young people to singing, rhythm, percussion, instrumental performance and Saint Lucian folk music while laying the foundation for what organisers hope will evolve into a structured national approach to music education.
Director of Music Hub and music teacher at the Castries Comprehensive Secondary School, Lestan Celestin, said the summer camp is serving as a testing ground for a broader vision that would give more young Saint Lucians access to quality music instruction.
Rather than focusing solely on teaching children, the initiative is also developing the next generation of music educators. Experienced instructors are working alongside student volunteers and junior teachers, allowing aspiring educators to gain practical classroom experience while mentoring younger participants.
Campers between the ages of five and 17 are learning to play the keyboard, cuatro and drums while receiving vocal training. According to Celestin, the instruments were deliberately selected because they provide an accessible starting point for beginners and encourage participants to continue developing their musical talents long after the camp ends.
The programme follows Music Hub’s philosophy of “Discover. Develop. Perform. Serve.” Organisers say the goal extends beyond producing talented musicians—it is about nurturing future teachers, mentors and community leaders who can help strengthen Saint Lucia’s cultural identity through music.
The camp will conclude with participants performing together as a band, showcasing the skills they have developed over the three-day programme. Organisers also hope many of the young musicians will continue their musical journey with Music Hub after the summer initiative concludes.
