The music of the Caribbean is known for its clever lyricism, its soaring melodies, and its unfailing grooviness. In this workshop, singers, songwriters, and instrumentalists (of any level!) will explore and perform styles from across the islands, with a strong emphasis on Trinidadian calypso. Even if you are a beginner with a few chords up your sleeve, this will acquaint you with the rhythms, melodies, and lyrical forms of this captivating music. We will cover some of the region's most beloved songs from the 1800's to the present day.

Bio

Originally from Trinidad and Tobago, Drew Gonsalves is a singer-songwriter and founder of the Juno-Award winning calypso group Kobo Town. His music has been described “an intoxicating blend of lilting calypsonian wit, dancehall reggae, and trombone-heavy brass” (The Guardian) and a “unique, transnational composite of rhythm, poetry and activist journalism”(Exclaim!) With Kobo Town, he has performed at concert halls and festivals across the world. Gonsalves also co-wrote and co-produced the platinum-selling album Far From Home for Caribbean legend Calypso Rose and recently, one of his songs was covered by Carlos Santana as the first single on his release Africa Speaks. Gonsalves was dubbed "Calypso's Crown Prince" by Songlines Magazine for his role in helping revive interest in calypso worldwide.