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In 2005, Soroptimist Leila Thomas suggested to Dr Loraine Barnaby, then president of the Kingston Club of Soroptimist International Jamaica (SIJK), that the club organise a classical music concert to raise funds for its charities. Twenty years later, Classics in June continues with its annual concert, which will take place this Father’s Day at the University Chapel, Mona, starting at 5 p.m. The club will also launch the Joyce Byles Memorial Fund, honouring the late Soroptimist Joyce Byles, past president and a longtime planning committee member.
Since the concert series began, SIJK has donated over half a million dollars to institutions supporting children. This year’s beneficiaries are Reddie’s Children’s Home and the Shortwood United Church Early Childhood Development Centre.
Barnaby, chair of the planning committee, notes that inviting children from these homes to attend the concert has been meaningful: “It was especially moving one year when one of the children made a short speech thanking the club for its support and for having invited them to the concert.”
The concert has also provided rare opportunities for young performers. “We have always sought to include young performers, and they are always happy for the opportunity — there are not many such occasions. Their families are also thrilled to see them on stage,” Barnaby added.
This year’s performers include Christine MacDonald Nevers (voice), Steven Woodham (violin), Shawn Richards (classical guitar), Yanique Leiba-Ebanks (piano), Gabriel Walters (violin), Laurice Barnaby (flute), Allison Wallace (piano), Loraine Barnaby (dance), and Stephen Shaw-Naar (piano).
Reflecting on her own musical journey, Barnaby shares, “I’ve always loved the flute and this has not changed. What has been really interesting is performing with other musicians playing the piano, clarinet, guitar or flute as the case may be.”
Looking back, Barnaby credits the concert’s success to teamwork and the dedication of the club, planning committee, and longtime collaborators. The COVID-19 pandemic posed challenges, cancelling the 2020 concert, but it returned virtually the following year with international and local performers.
“Seeing the delight of the performers and the audience fully engaged in the concert, and hearing all the comments such as ‘that was excellent’ or ‘what a wonderful concert’ – that’s all part of what makes it worthwhile.” Even after two decades, she admits to still feeling a few butterflies before performing, “I do get a little nervous as I don’t play with a score in front of me, but from memory.”
As for what she hopes people will remember in the next decade or so, she said, “That the concerts were enjoyable and that they provided an opportunity for established and up-and-coming Jamaican artistes to showcase their talent in classical music, a genre which is so rich and varied.”
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