Light & Love Reflections on Arise, Shine!

Reflections by Kamaria Charles Richards & Chelsea Hanumanta DECEMBER 2021

1. How did you find out about The Lydians and why did you join?

Chelsea: My teacher, Mr. Andrew Samlal, told me about Lydian Steel as he was their accompanist. After discussion with him and my parents, I decided to audition for the band to gain experience.

Kamaria: In 2018, my music teacher and former Lydians Musical Director, Ms. Granderson, introduced me to the Lydian Steel as she thought it would benefit me as an aspiring musician. I was obviously very grateful for the opportunity and a little intimidated because I knew how recognized the group was. 2. How has the pandemic affected you both personally and as a musician?

Chelsea: At times, stuck at home, one can feel rather lonely and saddened, however, I think this allowed for the embracing and valuing of important things around us that we may have taken for granted in the past such as family, friends, and God. As a musician, the restriction regarding performing discouraged me a bit but it also welcomed more time to practice, improve and reflect.

Kamaria: Personally, the pandemic affected me a lot as I was in the middle of my CSEC Examinations, however I was able to successfully achieve all my passes, and even again with my CAPE Unit 1 Examinations this year, I was again very successful, and I thank God and my family for that. Musically, I wasn’t affected that much as I have my own instrument, and I also attend music lessons, so I was still able to practice.

3. How were you able to cope with the pandemic?

Chelsea: Embracing music, as well as family and keeping in contact with friends, helped me to cope during this rollercoaster of a year.

Kamaria: I was mainly able to cope thanks to God, my family, and friends, and of course, my music. The check-ups from our current Musical Director last year also played a big role. 4. How is your experience being the youngest members of Lydian Steel?

What are your hopes for your future with The Lydians?

Chelsea: The atmosphere at Lydians is completely different. It is no longer about just learning notes but also being able to read and produce music quickly. I’m surrounded by all these amazingly talented and experienced players. I’m so grateful for the things that I’m learning and the experiences that come with it. I’m so excited for my future with Lydians.

Kamaria: When I first joined three years ago, it was very intimidating being amongst all these talented musicians, but the members of the Lydian Steel really welcomed me into their little family and I’m extremely grateful for that. Overall, the Lydians is one big community that truly cares about all its members and I’m very enthusiastic to continue my musical journey with them.

5. How is your experience preparing for a concert during a pandemic? What does the theme “Arise, Shine!” mean to you?

Chelsea: We were able to practice and put on an entire production in a short space of time with the enthusiasm emanating from the theme, “Arise, Shine!”. The darkness of the pandemic has caused us to realize that our light comes from the Lord. When we embrace this fact and allow God to shine through to us, only then will we be enlightened in the realest and fullest way, and I think spreading this message is very relevant in many lives today with the pandemic putting it into context.

Kamaria: In my opinion, it’s not terrible and not too different to how we used to prepare for concerts previously. Last year, I had the experience of preparing for the Christmas concert during the pandemic and it turned out great. I am very excited to see how the whole concert turns out; it’s always fun to perform for more than just one night. For me, “Arise, Shine!” is a way of bringing light and love to others during this perilous time through music which is one of the reasons why I decided to become a musician.