Accompanists
Under the direction of Ms. Pat Bishop, the choir has expanded in several ways. The most profound of these efforts however has been the formation of its own orchestra. This orchestra comprises electronic keyboards and a steelband which to date has fifteen players. It must be noted that these players all read music! This feature distinguishes this steelband from others in Trinidad and Tobago where very few steelband players can read music.
For the Lydians the year of genesis was 1980. From then until the year 1992 the Lydians owned no musical instruments; they relied on the generosity of the management of Bishop Anstey High School - their rehearsal venue - for the use of the school's piano. For public performances, musical instruments at performance venues were utilized without cost to the group, particularly since the music was given in the service of others.
In the year 1992, the corporate conscience of the National Gas Company of Trinidad and Tobago led to its association with the Lydians, enabling the acquisition of three electronic keyboards in which were incorporated state of the art technology. These keyboards have become such an integral part of the Lydian accompaniment that they are regularly transported to the plethora of venues where Lydians are engaged to perform.
Their continued use has enhanced the high quality and range of musical accompaniment provided by our talented keyboardists. The instruments have helped all Lydians immensely in the development of musical appreciation.
As a child Myrtle and her two siblings Edward and Rhonda had the good fortune to be taught music at home by their mother Theodosia. With...
moreFrom early childhood Agnes yearned to play the piano. She pleaded with her mother to send her for lessons, but her father, the bread-...
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At the age of 9 Jerome started music lessons with Ms Sylvia Robin. Inspired to become a musician from listening to classical...
more'Recollections of a school friend' Ms. Pat Bishop talks about Lindy-Ann Bodden-Ritch
"It always...
moreHe walks into the practice session at Bishop's with an apologetic, sheepish smile. He is late. We have been working for at least an hour...
moreEvolution of the Lydian orchestra has become rather unconventional. The strings, brass and woodwinds have been replaced with electronic...
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