About Us
Welcome to The Lydians!
We are a non-profit organization composed of singers, musicians, performers and others who are interested in the presentation of good choral and other music through a programme of regular rehearsals and concerts. We are one of the premier musical organizations in Trinidad and Tobago and the Caribbean, known for excellence in musical performance, and for combining singers, steelpan players, African and Tassa drummers and treasured creative collaborators. As a registered non-profit organization, we are guided by our Bye-Laws and in particular by our Mission Statement.
Brief History of Musical and Artistic Leadership
The choir was started in 1979 by Bishop Anstey High School Music Mistress Joyce Spence and comprised mostly past pupils of the school and other members. In 1984, Miss Alma Pierre took direction of the choir and then, in 1987, Pat Bishop D.Litt. Hon. took up the baton. During her time as musical director, she introduced the Lydian Steel ensemble in 1995 and led the group in many pioneering musical projects until her sudden death in August 2011. In July 2017 Ms Lorraine Granderson was appointed as Music Director, with Mr. Carl-Anthony Hines as Assistant Music Director. Mr Carl Anthony Hines served as the Music Director from 2020 to 2022 following this Dr. Leah Brown was appointed Artistic/ Music Director of The Lydians till her untimely passing in November 2024. The Lydians is currently musically led by Mr. Shurvone Brathwaite and The Lydians Tecomas (Jr. Choir) was introduced in 2023 and is currently under the direction of Mr. Mark-Anthony Peter.
Governing Leadership
Since 2016, the organization is governed by an elected Board of Directors, with day-to-day operations carried out by a Management Committee. The current General Manager is Mr. Kamau Fletcher. Previous Managers were Mr. Kory Mendez Mr. Garnet Allen, Mr. Trevor Carrington, Mr. Randal Robinson and Mr. Patrick Bertrand.
Musical Achievements
The choir has made history and established a global brand for Trinidad and Tobago as one of the few musical organizations to attempt major opera, oratorio and requiem works over the years. The choir has also shown prowess at the T&T Music Festival winning over thirty (30) championship trophies over the years and has also achieved one of the nation’s most prestigious awards – The Hummingbird Medal – Gold, for loyal and devoted service in the sphere of singing.
Performances
The choir performs regularly and extensively throughout Trinidad and Tobago. There may be two or three major concerts each year. The majority of the performances outside the concert series are done for others, so that they may be able to help themselves in some way. The group is also known for singing at weddings, funerals and anniversaries of well-wishers, relatives of choir members and VIPs. It also performs at State and corporate events.
