For Art's Sake

The Ministry of Tourism is eager to expand on the glut of artists descending on the island of St. Lucia this week for JazzFest.  In addition to performances at the Arts Village and entertainment stages, visiting talent is pulled in all directions to make the most of their short stay. One educational component is a presentation for the local school children at the School of Music performance venue, The Musicbox.

This event is held during the school day, and children  arrive in minivans and are dressed smartly in the red or blue uniforms that distinguish one school from another. The visiting "artist",  Chris Standring, informs the youngsters that if they want to be musicians, they have three choices: artist, sideman or teacher.  His other takeaway point is that there is no original thought.  We are all influenced by other people.

Then his band performs and the students absorb the moment through iPads and phones.  From a brief survey, it appears that very few of these children are interested in becoming an artist, as defined by Standring.  Afterwards, snacks are served and swag water bottles are distributed.  The artist is now relegated to signing 80 water bottles for the persistent fans.