The Lydians, Trinidad and Tobago

Calling all singers and musicians! - New Musica Season 2012 and beyond!

2012-01-25T03:58:00.000-08:00

Calling all persons who have a passion for music! The Lydians organization has been formalized and registered as a Not-For-Profit entity and begins its musical journey into 2012!

Calling all singers and musicians! Rehearsals for this season begin again from this Friday 27th January 2012 at 7:00 PM, Bishop Anstey High School Hall, Port of Spain (Opposite NAPA on Keate Street). For more information please contact the Choir Management Team at: thelydiansingers@yahoo.com or 1-868-794-6391. Spread the word!

We Live!

The Archbishop of PAN! - Tribute to Dr. Pat Bishop by Len "Boogsie Sharp" Featuring the Lydians

2012-01-05T07:00:00.000-08:00

The Lydians are PROUD to present, "The Archbishop of PAN!" A tribute song to the life and amazing journey of Dr. Pat Bishop, TC!

This song was written by calypsonian G.B. arranged by Len "Boogsie" Sharp. PHASE II Pan Groove will perform this song for the 2011 Panorama competition! Please share the song around to all friends, well wishers and former students

"Pat Bishop, We will Always Love You!"

LISTEN TO THE SONG NOW: http://www.panonthenet.com/tnt/2012/tunes/archbishop-of-pan.htm?fb_comment_id=fbc_10150566467497718_21930342_10150568744787718#f870c37d10b412

Special Greetings from the Vitiers, Cuba.

2011-12-27T13:41:00.000-08:00

Some wonderful correspondence received from Silvia and José maría Vitier to The Lydians. Maestro Vitier, his wife and his son visited with the Lydians for Christmas 2010 for the Trinidad and Tobago premier of Vitier's work, "The MISA CUBANA". The Vitiers continue to remain close to the Lydians and the group's musical journey continues into 2012 and beyond.

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Queridos Lydian Singers,

Hemos pensado mucho en ustedes, en la ausencia de Pat y sobretodo en los magníficos momentos que pasamos juntos el pasado año. Permanecen en nuestra memoria todos ustedes, la música en las voces trinitarias y el cariño inmenso que nos entregaron.

¿Qué concierto hicieron este año?, cuánto nos hubiera gustado asistir.

Ojalá el próximo año nos traiga el regalo de verlos nuevamente.

Un abrazo muy grande a todos, con el deseo de que encuentren siempre el camino del arte, con el espíritu de Pat en la memoria y en sus corazones.

Muchas Felicidades de sus amigos siempre,

Silvia y José maría

English Translation:

Dearest Lydian Singers,

We have thought a lot about you, about Pat's absence, and especially about those awesome moments that we spent last year. These remain embedded in our memory as well as you all and your beautiful Trini voices along with the tremendous love you showed to us. What concert did you present this year? Oh how we would have loved to attend! Hopefully next year you can offer us the gift of seeing you once more! We send many hugs and kisses to ALL, with the wish that you approach all your musical endeavours with Pat's spirit in your hearts and minds.
Your friends eternally

Silvia and Jose Maria

Cantando GLORIA! Gracias por La Musica!

2011-12-12T05:00:00.000-08:00

Cantando GLORIA! Gracias por La Musica!

After four joyous nights of celebration, the Lydians Christmas concert series came to a close last evening (Sunday 11th December 2011) at the Queen's Hall Auditorium.

Through some tears but mostly smiles and happy laughter, the music was propelled to an emotional climax and drawn to a peaceful end through the hard work of singers, musicians, dancers, choreographers, costume designers, caterers, technical crew, support staff and friends.

In this season of joy and giving, the Lydians say a HEARTFELT thank you to all patrons who attended each of the concerts, especially the Gala Concert on Saturday 10th December 2011 in support of Pat's Art, Literature and Music Foundation (The P.A.L.M. Foundation).

The Lydians persevere through this Christmas stronger than ever, and made so by Pat's dedicated and loyal years of service to music and dedication to human excellence. As we close off 2011, we look back with pride and happiness at a well spent year in fellowship and friendship.

We thank you Miss Bishop for your vision, for your drive, for your legacy and for the wonderful years of music!

“We Live!”

Merry Christmas from the Lydians, and a Bright and Prosperous New Year!

Bravo! Encore!

2011-09-06T07:32:00.000-07:00

Due to overwhelming requests, Schubert's 24 song-cycle, "Winterreise" featuring Trinidad and Tobago Tenor, Edward Cumberbatch and Pianist Lindy-Ann Bodden-Ritch, will be performed again at the Little Carib Theatre on Saturday 10th September 2011. The concert will begin at 6:30 p.m.

Tickets are $150.00 and will be available from the Little Carib from tomorrow (Wednesday 7th September 2011).

Do not miss the opportunity to see this emotionally stirring performance!

About the Story

"Winterreise" is the story of a young traveller.

He arrives in an idyllic village in May. There he befriends a family of mother, father and daughter and is invited to live with them. He falls in love with the daughter and his love is returned, or so he is led to believe. However, the daughter rejects him to marry a wealthy suitor with the approval of her parents. It is now winter and the hero leaves his adopted home in the dead of night, writing a farewell message to his beloved.

As he leaves the town crows shower him with snow from the roofs and he begins a painful journey, constantly tortured by memories of his past happiness. As he leaves the town he is joined by a raven, possibly symbolic of a death wish. Eventually he arrives at another town where it seems that he stays for some time as he writes of the post arriving there.

The cycle ends with a particularly bleak image. An organ-grinder or hurdy-gurdy man has a pitch near the village where he plies his trade ignored by the villagers and harassed by dogs. It is ironic that in this final poem the poet asks if the hurdy-gurdy man will set the poet’s songs to music, an invitation that was ultimately accepted by Schubert.

Winterreise - Success!

2011-09-03T19:41:00.000-07:00

Success! The first night of "Winterreise" has been receiving rave reviews! Here is some feedback we've received thus far:

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"Stunning concert tonight! Eddie and Lyndiann were of international standard and the dance and colloquial commentary were "juss right".... BRAVISSIMO!!!"

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"Is there a superlative to Outstanding??? Eddie!!! Lindy-Ann!!! I'm still high."

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"Just came back from "Die Winterreise". It was more than great, I recommend that everyone who missed it tonight tries to catch a ticket for tomorrow "

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"Die Winterreise" was lovely! Dr. Bishop, RIP, & i dare say Schubert himself would be proud. Wonderful concept, preparation & delivery in the charming Little Carib Theatre!

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Winterreise was FAN-TAS-TIC!!! Eddie Cumberatch, Lindy-Ann Bodden-Ritch, Wendell Manwarren, Peter Minshal and all those involved did such great work. Sooo happy I went this evening... You should try to catch it if you can tomorrow!

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There is only one more opportunity to see this recital concert! Sunday 4th September 2011"Winterreise" featuring Tenor Edward Cumberbatch and Accompanist Lindy-Ann". Tickets for tomorrow afternoon (5:30 pm) are available at the concert venue - The Little Carib Theatre.

Lydians presents ‘Winterreise’ at Little Carib

2011-09-03T19:36:00.000-07:00

This weekend the Lydian Singers, in partnership with the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany, will honour the late Pat Bishop, who until her sudden passing on August 20 was the choir’s musical director, by continuing with plans for two concerts featuring tenor Edward Cumberbatch and pianist Lindy-Ann Bodden-Ritch.

One of this country’s foremost cultural icons, Dr Patricia Bishop collapsed during a meeting of the Panel of High Level Experts Culture and Creative Arts and died at the Port-of-Spain General Hospital.

The holder of this country’s highest honour, the Trinity Cross (renamed the Order of the Republic of TT), Bishop has been lauded for her work as a musician, painter, historian, media commentator, and cultural activist. She has worked with several steelbands including Renegades, Desperadoes, Exodus, and others, as well as with several musical and cultural groups and organisations.

Cumberbatch and Bodden-Ritch will perform a cycle of songs, “Winterreise” by composer Franz Schubert. The concerts will take place at the Little Carib Theatre, corner White and Roberts streets, Woodbrook tomorrow and Sunday from 5.30 pm on both days.

In the early 19th century, Schubert set to music a narrative poem by his contemporary, Wilhelm Müller, creating the song cycle “Winterreise” (Winter Journey), a sequence of 24 songs for voice and piano. The theme of the story — heartbreak — and the mood — reflection — are as universal as they are timeless. Imaginative interpretation and performance are the means by which classical works are made fresh and new to audiences over time and place.

The performance will be enlivened by dance, choreographed by Patricia Roe of the Caribbean School of Dancing, and featuring Allison Seepaul and Mondira Balkaransingh.

Memorial Service for Pat Bishop and "Winterreise"

2011-08-24T14:04:00.000-07:00

Dear Friends in Music,

A Memorial ceremony for Dr. Pat Bishop will be held this Sunday at the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Port of Spain. The ceremony will begin at 4:00 p.m. Performances from the Lydians, Lydian soloists, and other musicians who were touched by her great work will be done. Inquiries can be sent to thelydiansingers@yahoo.com.

The Lydians in partnership with the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany look forward to honouring Pat in continuing plans made for two concerts featuring Edward Cumberbatch (Tenor) and Lindy-Ann Bodden-Ritch (Pianist), who will perform a cycle of songs, "Winterreise" by Shubert. The concerts will take place on Saturday 3rd and Sunday 4th September 2011 (times to be confirmed). Tickets are $150.00 and are available from all members of the Lydians and at the Little Carib Box Office, Signature Collection Normandie Hotel, and La Tropicale Flower Shop.

This performance is sponsored by the National Gas Company of Trinidad and Tobago (NGC).

A Tribute to Pat Bishop's life with the Lydians

2011-08-21T16:29:00.000-07:00

As a tribute to Dr. Bishop's life with the Lydians, please have a look at the following photo gallery:

THE LYDIANS TRIBUTE PHOTO GALLERY

An excerpt from the resume of Dr. Pat Bishop (2005, page 15)...

FUTURE HOPES

1. That my fellow country men may find their place in the sun...though that seems now, to be so remote as to be impossible.

2. To retire as soon as possible to a life of books and reading, painting, playing other people's music privately and meeting a few friends from time to time for some talk over good food and a little wine.

3. Not to have to deal with money at all.

4. To be able to believe more fully, with Julian of Norwich, that "all shall be well and all shall be well and al manner of thing shall be well".

5. To be able to leave this world, and soon, with serenity and a quiet mind.

Dr. Patricia Allison Bishop, (1940 - 2011)

The passing of Dr. Pat Bishop.

2011-08-20T18:27:00.000-07:00

(Photo: Pat Bishop and Ray Holman rehearse for "A Carnival Callalloo" 2011)

It is with great sadness and deep regret that we inform all Lydians family in Trinidad and Tobago and abroad of the passing of Dr. Pat Bishop today. More information will be posted as soon as it is received.

More about the late Dr. Pat Bishop here:
http://www.thelydianstt.com/PatBishop.htm
http://www.thelydianstt.com/PatProfile.htm

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2011-01-07T08:08:00.000-08:00

A VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR, From The Lydians!

As 2011 begins, the Lydians give thanks for another year of music and performance. On January 9th, the Lydians complete the final concert of the MISA CUBANA series at The Abbey on Mount St. Benedict, Tunapuna, Trinidad and Tobago.

Mount St. Benedict is the home of the Benedictine monks who live and work in Trinidad and Tobago. They follow a way of life that traces its roots to St. Benedict of Norcia who was born in Italy in the year 480. This concert is being done in aid of the Benedictine monks and the restoration of the church. More on Mount St. Benedict here: http://www.paxabbey.com/

Tickets cost TT$100.00 and are available at the church office up on the mount (662-5286). Space is limited so book your tickets soon!

MISA CUBANA - Gracias por La Musica!

2010-12-13T07:06:00.000-08:00

Four nights of amazing music from Cuba have been successfully completed! And, the reviews are in! The Lydians production of MISA CUBANA has fascinated and touched audiences through the beautiful music of Maestro Jose Maria Vitier of Cuba!

Sunday's concert, the final one in the series of MISA CUBANA concerts at the Queen's Hall Auditorium, was an emotional one for the Lydians, the Vitiers and all performers as the final curtain fell on this unique, artistic collaboration of Caribbean music between Trinidad and Tobago and Cuba.

In a small gathering after Sunday's concert, Maestro Vitier thanked the Lydians, Dr. Bishop and all persons who worked tirelessly to ensure that this concert series became a reality. He relayed that he has always believed in the power of possibility and would take all of the emotions he has experienced through this occasion in Trinidad, back with him to Cuba, to create art and share with his people. His son, Jose Adrian Vitier whose paintings from his exhibition, “Alegorias de la Virgen” (Allegories of the Virgin) were included in the production of the MISA CUBANA translated these words.

In a show of musical solidarity and cultural appreciation during the gathering, the Soogrim-Ram Tassa drummers gifted guest percussionist from Cuba Abel Acosta (Also the Deputy Minister of Culture for Cuba) with his own 'Cutter' Tassa drum! In turn, Mr. Acosta made a generous gift in giving the Lydians all the Cuban drums, which he had played for each performance! The evening ended with further presentations to members of the choir, the organizing team and event contributors.

Three more concerts remain in the Christmas season for the MISA CUBANA this Friday, Saturday and Sunday at St. Patrick's Church, St. Crispin's Church and the Fatima Shrine (Our Lady of Lourdes) on Laventille Hill. The final concert in the series will take place in a few weeks from now on January 9th at Mount St. Benedict.

The Lydians give thanks for the gift of music in this performance, truly understanding the power of possibilities and of finding musical kinship across the Caribbean Sea. Thank you, to all persons who attended the production, Thank you to all cast members, crew, choir managers and organizers. Thank you to the Accompanists, the Lydians Steel Orchestra, the Desperadoes Steel Orchestra, all drummers and percussionists, the Cuban Embassy in T&T, the National Gas Company of Trinidad and Tobago, West Indian Tobacco and all sponsors and supporters of this initiative.

Finally, a special 'Thank you' to Abel Acosta, and Maestro Jose Maria Vitier and his family for their presence and most of all, for the beautiful music! Viva La Musica!

A well-attended first night at the Lydians production of MISA CUBANA!

2010-12-10T07:54:00.000-08:00

A solid start for the MISA CUBANA!

H.E. President George Maxwell Richards, former President ANR Robinson, former First Lady Mrs. Hassanali, former Prime Minister of T&T Mr. Patrick Manning, many members of the Diplomatic core in cluding the Cuban Ambassador to T&T H.E. Humberto Riviero Rosario, the Chief Justice of Trinidad and Tobago Mr. Ivor Archie, members of the Media and many other special guests all attended the premiere night to show their support for the Lydians performance of the MISA CUBANA!

You can share the experience as well by checking the Queen's Hall Box office for tonight and Saturday 11th. (Tickets for Sunday 12th are no longer available).

Ave Maria for Cuba - Jose Maria Vitier

2010-12-06T05:00:00.000-08:00

The Lydians rehearse with Maestro Vitier for the first time!

"Ave Maria for Cuba" -The Lydians feat. Jose Maria Vitier
Soprano: Fayola King Lawrence
Venue: Mucurapo East Secondary School Hall

Bienvenido a T&T, Maestro Vitier!

2010-12-05T19:42:00.001-08:00

Maestro Jose Maria Vitier has arrived in Trinidad and Tobago!

MISA CUBANA Launch a Success!

2010-12-04T05:14:00.001-08:00

Here are some highlights from the launch of the Southern Caribbean premiere of the MISA CUBANA!

From 9th to 12th of December, the work of the contemporary Cuban pianist and composer, José Maria Vitier will be performed in Trinidad. The particular work is “Misa Cubana,” a setting of the traditional Catholic Mass which is dedicated to the Virgin of Charity, (or the Virgin of Mercy), is regarded as the patron saint of Cuba. In attendance at the launch were, Cuban Ambassador, H.E. Mr. Humberto Rivero Rosario and Ms. Ana Silvia Rodríguez Abascal. Media guests included CNMG, Gayelle The Channel, Power 102 FM, Triniscene.com, Triniview.com, the Guardian Newspaper, the Trinidad Express Newspaper and several Bloggers and Independent media.

More photos from the MISA CUBANA Launch can be found below:

Triniview.com: http://www.triniview.com/gallery/main.php?g2_itemId=511593
Triniscene.com: http://triniscene.com/tsv7/galleries/?page=iframe&id=GAL7F9479

"MISA CUBANA" Media Launch 15th November @ Bishop Anstey High School POS

2010-11-14T06:45:00.001-08:00

"MISA CUBANA" Media Launch 15th November 2010

It's finally here! On Monday 15th of November 2010, the Lydians will host the Media Launch of their Christmas production, "MISA CUBANA" by Cuban composer, Jose Maria Vitier.

Venue: Bishop Anstey High School Hall, Keate Street, Port of Spain (same street as Zen Nightclub)
Time: 8:00 p.m.

All members of the media are invited to attend! You can expect to receive a special media kit with information on the Cuban Mass, the Composer, the Lydians' rich performance history and photos associated with production rehearsals and artistic collaborators.

Entertainment and refreshments will be available!

For more information contact: Choir Management, 794-6391

Lydians to perform its 8th Religious Mass for Christmas 2010!

2010-09-04T05:59:00.000-07:00

Greetings from The Lydians!

The choir has had an eventful season thus far with smaller appearances and performances across Trinidad and Tobago. From this month, preparations continue and intensify for the always anticipated, grand year-ending finale - The annual Lydians Christmas Concert.

From a long and successful history of performing major religious works, The Lydians and Lydian Steel, the foremost choral organization in Trinidad and Tobago, under the musical direction of Dr. Pat Bishop, will perform its 8th religious mass for Christmas 2010!

From 1988 to 2009, the Lydians have performed and mastered some of the greatest religious works ever composed by musicians of historical significance. Some of the Lydians' performances include; Requiem - Giuseppe Verdi (1988 & 1998), Missa Luba - arranged by Guido Haazen (1989), Missa Solemnis - Ludwig Van Beethoven (1992), Ein Deutsches Requiem - Johannes Brahms (2000), Vespers - Claudio Monteverdi (2004), Missa 'Rosa' Mystica - Vito Carnevali (2004), Missa Criolla - Ariel Ramírez (2008) and most recently for the Lydians' 30th anniversary, The Messiah - George F. Handel (2009).

For Christmas 2010, the Lydians will perform the 'Misa Cubana a la Virgen de la Caridad del Cobre' - a mass by Cuban composer Jose Maria Vitier, at the Queen's Hall Auditorium, St. Ann's from 9th to 12th of December 2010.

Jose Maria Vitier is a music composer and pianist born and residing right here in the Caribbean, in Havana, Cuba. His style often combines the classical and Cuban folk music styles. His work includes music composed for movies such as "Fresa y Chocolate", television, animation and documentary short films. He has also written compositions for piano, symphonic orchestra, chamber orchestra, among other formats. His most prominent work is his Cuban mass, or 'Misa Cubana'.

In the 'Misa Cubana', Jose Maria Vitier shows his mastery of Cuban music. You are bound to be able to recognize the Afro-cuban sounds in these religious pieces. The syncopated rhythms and nuances in the musical score will sound very familiar to the Trinbagonian ear. Combined with the Lydians Steel, and African and Tassa drums, the Lydians production of 'Misa Cubana' promises to be a melange of beautiful Caribbean music that should not be missed!

Dates to remember:

Misa Cubana performances at Queen's Hall, St. Anns (9th - 12th December)
Tickets go on sale from all Lydians, Signature 2009, Normandie Hotel and La Tropicale, Patna Street St. James (1st November)
Misa Cubana performance at Mt. St. Benedict (19th December) **tentative

For more on Jose Maria Vitier visit his website here: http://www.portalatino.com/platino/website/ewespeciales/vitier/fe/
For more on the Lydians and Lydians Steel visit our website here: http://www.thelydianstt.com

New Years Day! BACH meets BRADLEY - a concert and public discussion offered to all who love music!

2009-12-24T08:38:00.000-08:00

BACH MEETS BRADLEY Concert (2009) will air on local television station Gayelle The Channel 8 PM New Years Day and at 9:30 PM on January 6th 2010. Don't Miss it!

BACH meets BRADLEY - a concert and public discussion offered to all who love music!

Featuring:

Christian Lumsden, Organ playing the music of J.S. Bach
Desperadoes Steel Orchestra, playing the music of Clive Bradley

On behalf of the Lydian Singers and Steel...celebrating their thirtieth music-making year, music lovers were invited to share in this once - in - a - lifetime musical experience, where OUR people played the music for the organ and pan by two of the best composers of music for these two kinds of instruments. The concert occurred on Saturday 15th August, 2009 at Tranquility Methodist Church, 7:30 pm. Gayelle The Channel did a live recording of the show and will air it this New Years Day and on January 6th on their station.

"Listen and learn the differences...Listen to the similarities and rejoice...Understand that good music is just that ... good! The notice is short but the cause is just! "
- Pat Bishop

Official Press release: http://www.panonthenet.com/calendar/Files/Bach_meets_Bradley.pdf

THANK YOU!

2009-12-16T03:52:00.000-08:00

The Lydians wishes to thank all concert attendees who shared with us in the experience of Handel's Messiah.

Thank you to all artistic Collaborators:
Guru Mondira Balkaransingh
Micheal Lucien and the Malick Folk Performers
All members of the The Lydian Steel Orchestra
Krishna Soogrim-Ram and The Soogrim-Ram Tassa
Xavier Phillips and the Lydian drummers
Gillian Bishop and her team
Bernard Beckles and the La Tropicale Flower shop

Thank you to all members of the media who gave us coverage!

Thank you to the entire management committee and technical crew including:
Sound: Victor Donowa
Lighting: Derek Gay

Thank you to the costuming genius of resident designer and seamstress Claudette Edwards and her entire team!

Thank you to the management and staff of the Queen's Hall Auditorium.

And Thank You to the Lydians management team, all Lydians and the Lydians extended family!

Visit Triniview.com to see the photos from our amazing show!

Imaging Messiah...Five days to show time…

2009-12-04T14:06:00.000-08:00

Rehearsal Notes from Dr. Pat Bishop....

"So we have to be seen. We shall be heard – that’s for sure. But how will we look?!."

This is “Performance Art!! Sometimes, having more than one artistic core discipline puts one into transdiciplinarity –an intellectual position to which one is committed. How do I know what I hear until I see what I’m singing, playing, and all the rest?

But we have had the exhaustion of CHOGM and we are a week to show time and we can only now shape the visuals, the sounds, the movement and so on. I’m writing this at 3:00 a.m – 7 days to show time. (Thursday 3rd December 2009) Mondira, my friend, with the bells on her feet and that incredibly polite understanding of what movement is, “falls in”… and Michael Lucien’s Malick dancers arrive with their white skirts and the confidence that they can dance to anything which they hear. Malick understands what “show time” is. And so we put in Xavier’s drums, and the Soogrim Ram tassa boys and we let them loose.

Writing this at 3 in the morning and I am on a high because “Messiah” without changing a single note becomes a truly T & T tribute to the Baroque. Watch Eddie and Mondira plead “Comfort ye, my people” and you are reduced by the beauty and the intensity of the place by the sheer beauty of the voice, the dancer and the bells on her feet…and you begin to understand that this is no search for “impertinent vanities”.

This is not a process which lends itself to blue print. It’s like making a very large painting and trusting your paint!! Wish us luck because this is a HUGE picture!

Pat Bishop
Port of Spain
December, 2009

Artistic Collaborations abound for the Lydians performance of Handel's Messiah!

2009-12-03T12:03:00.000-08:00

The Lydians - Handel's Messiah, December 10th - 13th 2009
Rehearsal - Bishop Anstey High School Hall

6 Days to Opening Night...

The Lydians rehearsal for Handel's Messiah seemed an evening for the creative callaloo of artistic collaborations, with the additions of Guru Mondira Balkaransingh and Mr. Michael Lucien, and the Malick Folk Performers. The combination itself truly represents all that is Trinidad and Tobago culture, a mixture of varied influences and unique artistic expressions!

Indian-born Mondira Balkaransingh is the Artistic Director of the Nrityanjali Theatre, Institute for the Arts and Culture. The Nrityanjali Theatre was founded in 1977 by the Balkaransinghs ( Sat and Mondira) and has produced numerous ballets and stage productions. It has travelled extensively throughout the Caribbean, USA and UK. The theatre is noted for staging productions at the highest professional level and has always won accolades for its works.

The artistry and great tradition of the Kathak classical style of dance, usually includes rich musical accompaniments of the tabla, sitar sarangis and vocal renditions. However, with the Handel's Messiah, Dr. Pat Bishop has fused the sounds of classical baroque music, in the form of the harpsichord and organ instruments, along with the steelpan, the Tassa and African drums, and last evening, the rhythmic bells of Kathak dance to create an entirely new sound, which is wholly Caribbean and entirely new to any performance of Handel's Messiah before now!

The Malick Folk Performers, over 20 years in existence under the directorship of Michael Lucien, have been performing with the Lydians for the past 5-6 years. Out of the group's large ensemble, only an average of 6-8 perform during concerts on stage with the choir. The Malick Folk Performers have participated in the two operas by the Lydians, Koanga in 1995 and Elixir of Love in 1996, have performed with the choir at the Prime Minister's residence, and were also part o the choir's performance for the leaders of Cuba and The Netherlands in 1995. For Handel's Messiah, this Christmas, the Malick folk Performers joins the cast to bring several of the Messiah choruses alive with the jubilation of their unique dancing styles!

Tickets (TT$125.00, US$19.64 EU$13.03) for the Lydians performance of Handel's Messiah are available at the following locations:

Queen's Hall Box Office, Queen's Hall Auditorium, Port of Spain
http://www.CaribbeanBoxOffice.net
La Tropicale Flower Shop, Patna Street, St. James
Signature 2000, The Marketplace, Normandie Hotel
And all Choir members!

On the journey to The Lydians performance of Handel's Messiah - rehearsal notes (Monday 30th November 2009, BAHS Hall Port of Spain)

2009-12-01T11:39:00.000-08:00

The Lydians - Handel's Messiah,
December 10th - 13th 2009
Rehearsal - Bishop Anstey High School Hall

9 Days to Opening Night...

Handel is no stranger to the Lydians. Our rousing rendition of the Hallelujah Chorus from the Messiah is often a piece that is done in jubilant celebration at the end of every concert we perform. This jubilation is heightened by Dr. Bishop's incorporation of rhythm and percussion, with thundering African drums and the rippling accompaniment of indigenous Tassa drums. The overall effect is a heavenly and joyful noise, a signature sound that is synonymous with the Lydians.

At Monday evening's rehearsal, Dr. Bishop revealed that people have asked why she intends to make rhythm and percussion instruments such an integral part of the upcoming performance of Handel's Messiah. She relayed that often times in paintings from that period of musicians, the percussionist would wear garments inclusive of a tiger skin. She told the group of gathered singers and instrumentalists that in the baroque period, there was an appreciation for rhythmic instruments, such as the Turkish drums. This she felt spoke to an attention to percussion nuance in baroque music, which she intended to make use of in the Lydians interpretation of the Messiah this Christmas.

The Lydians and Lydians Steel were joined by the Soogrim-Ram Tassa drummers at Bishop Anstey High School Hall, where several rhythms from the combination of instruments were tried, both with the Hallelujah Chorus as well as an experiment using drums and rhythm with the final chorus of the Messiah, Worthy is the Lamb!

More from our next rehearsal, Wednesday 2nd December 2009 as we countdown the final days before the performance of Handel's Messiah!

The Lydians salute Queen’s Hall with Handel’s Messiah at Christmas

2009-11-30T10:05:00.000-08:00

The Lydians salute Queen’s Hall with Handel’s Messiah at Christmas

By a fortuitous alignment of calendars, three significant musical dates have come together this year, 2009: Queen’s Hall is fifty years old, George Frideric Handel died two hundred and fifty years ago and it is the thirtieth anniversary of the founding of the Lydians.

What better way to acknowledge this gift of fortune, than for the Lydians, under the musical direction of Pat Bishop, accompanied by Lydian Steel and renowned keyboardists Lindy-Ann Bodden-Ritch and Myrtle Cumberbatch, to perform Handel’s well-loved ‘Messiah’ in its entirety at Queen’s Hall?

While celebrating significant anniversaries, this concert is itself a landmark event. It is the World Premiere of Handel’s Messiah accompanied by steelband, keyboards and drums. Audiences at Lydian performances have long thrilled to their interpretation of the last chorus of the second part of this three-part work – the rousing ‘Hallelujah Chorus’ with steelpan, Indian and African drums. Additionally, many of the well-known choruses in this work have featured in past Lydian Christmas concerts; among them, ‘For Unto Us a Child is Born’ and ‘Glory to God’. Soloists Eddie Cumberbatch’s ‘Comfort ye my people’ and ‘Every valley shall be exalted’ as well as Benedict Rousseau’s ‘Thus saith the Lord’ and ‘But who shall abide the day of his coming?’ are already familiar to audiences. But this is the first time that the complete work from the Overture to the final choruses, ‘Worthy is the Lamb’ and ‘Amen’ will be heard with the unique Lydian sound of voices and steel.

The Messiah has long been a staple of Christmas concerts the world over. It is an oratorio of fifty-three pieces in three parts, comprising grouped sequences of recitatives, airs and choruses. This allows the impressive line-up of Lydian soloists great scope to showcase talent and skilful interpretation. Joining the stellar cast of seasoned performers which includes Edward Cumberbatch, Glenis Yearwood, Joanne Pyle, Jenny Archer, Langford Madray, Benedict Rousseau, Dirk Govia, Garnet Allen, Janine Charles-Farray, Noel Rawlins, Pat Whittle, is a host of exciting young Lydians who will entertain and excite in the true Lydian spirit.

The concert series runs from Thursday 10th to Saturday 12th at 8.15 pm and on Sunday 13th December at 6.30 pm.

Tickets at $125, are available from CaribbeanBoxOffice.com members of the Lydians, Signature 2000 at The Marketplace, Hotel Normandie, St Ann’s – Joanne 624 2958; La Tropicale Flower Shop, Patna St, St James – Bernard 628 0769; and at Queen’s Hall Box Office 624 1284

Artwork for The Lydians performance of Handel's Messiah (with steelpan)

2009-11-24T09:14:00.000-08:00

ARTWORK for The Lydians Production of Handel's Messiah is complete!

ALSO - Tickets for Handel's Messiah will go on sale from December 1st 2009 (right after the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting) The cost is only $125! Available from Signature 2000, Hotel Normandie St. Ann's, La Tropicale Flower Shop, Patna Street, St. James and all members of the Lydians.

Look out for further details on the website: http://www.thelydianstt.com

Updates on the Lydians performance of Handel's Messiah (with Steelpan)!

2009-11-24T09:08:00.000-08:00

We have finally completed all choruses of the Handel's Messiah! Now, on to the study of nuanced singing and detailing. Early practice sessions continue from 7 pm at the choir's rehearsal location at Bishop Anstey High School.

Soloist rehearsal began for Lydians last Sunday (22nd November) with a session at Musical Director, Dr. Bishop's residence. There was an intense listening session using the Cabrielli version of Handel's Messiah. Dr. Bishop thought the tempi and interpretation inspiring and similar to her vision and her intended interpretation of the Messiah. What did the soloists think? "It FAST boy!" Particular attention was paid to the ornament work to be done by all soloists.

Local television station Gayelle The Channel http://www.gayelletv.com joins the journey towards, "The Making of Handel's Messiah" with the Lydians. Filming began at rehearsal at Bishop Anstey High School on Monday 16th November, with Dr. Christopher Laird, C.E.O. of Gayelle TV!

The first experiment with the Handel's Messiah as a performance to the public was a success! Thank you Santa Cruz RC for your warm reception!

Handel for Christmas!

2009-07-07T08:47:00.000-07:00

Trinidad and Tobago, The Lydians- To round up a year long celebration of 30 years of music, the Lydians will be putting on a performance of Handel's Messiah for Christmas 2009. It is said to be the first time that Handel's Messiah will be performed in its entirety with the steelpan instrument. Rehearsals have already begun and are in full swing, the choir started with the second-to-last major chorus, first. "Worthy Is The Lamb" is a rousing chorus with both technical challenges for the vocals as well as beautiful playing passages for the orchestra.

Oratorios have already been assigned to selected soloists, and this Christmas you can expect to hear from star vocalists such as tenor Eddie Cumberbatch, and sopranos Joanne Pyle and Glenis Yearwood. Joining the front line as new soloists are contraltos Elena Rawlins, Anike Richardson and tenor Jean-Paul Bethelmy.

For this performance, Dr. Pat Bishop has issued an open invitation to any singer, pannist or instrumentalist who may be interested in joining with us. (Pannists and instrumentalists -where applicable- must be able to read music comfortably.)

If you are interested in singing with us this Christmas, or, if you know a friend or a family member who is also interested, in singing pieces from Handel's Messiah, be sure to visit our rehearsals every Monday, Wednesday and Friday starting from the first week in July 2009. As is customary in the Lydians, there will be no auditions! The Lydians holds fast to its philosophy that anyone who is willing to sing and is dedicated to the work is welcome to join.

If you'd like to call first, you may contact our choir manager, Mr. Patrick Bertrand at 794-6391 for further details.

Messiah dates for Christmas are as follows: 10th, 11th, 12th and 13th of December 2009. Ticket release dates will be announced soon.

THE LYDIANS CELEBRATE 30 YEARS OF MUSIC.

2009-01-24T05:23:00.000-08:00

As you all might know, The Lydians will be celebrating 30 years of existence this year, and there are some key events planned so far. One of the most important is our thanksgiving service. On the heels of this will be The Lydians' Bi-annual Ole Mas and Calypso competition and following that will be our Gala Dinner.

Here are some important dates to remember:

Thanksgiving service - Friday January 30th, 2009 @ Tranquility Methodist Church, Victoria Avenue. Starts @ 8:00 P.M.
Lydians Bi -annual Ole Mas & Calypso competition will be held on Wednesday 18th February 2009.

**Info on the Gala will be posted soon. So keep checking this blog!

Also, the Lydians MAILING LIST has now been put into effect! This mailing list allows you first access to press releases flyers, general updates and more! One can join the mailing list by sending a request email to thelydiansingers@yahoo.com with the subject: 'Mailing List Request'.

Calling all Lydians from far and wide!

The Lydians will be singing for the Summit of the Americas on April 18th 2009. Rehearsal continues on Monday 26th January 2009!

In other news---

The Lydians Fan Page on Facebook has crossed 100 fans!

For those who are active on Facebook, the official Lydians fan page can be found here:
http://www.facebook.com/inbox/readmessage.php?t=1087759827682&f=1&e=-12#/pages/The-Lydians/9195237277?ref=ts

Continue to invite your friends, families and music lovers to join the Lydians fan page!

A New Lydian Direction for 2009!

2009-01-10T07:22:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends in Music,

A very Happy (if belated) New Year to you all from the Lydians! Last Sunday's Nine Lessons and Carols service at St. Micheal and All Angels Anglican Church in Diamond Vale, Diego Martin was a special treat for the Lydians, parishioners and well wishers alike. The Lydians offered some of our Christmas favourites from our 2008 Christmas concert series, "The Hills Are Alive With The Sound of Christmas" and "From Hill To Hill to Mount St. Benedict." Fr. Ashley Mungal and Dean Nolly Clarke lead the service with moving readings of the nine lessons of the Christmas season and the Lydians accompanied the service with both tradiotional Christmas carols, as well as other Lydians Christmas standards such as 'Red and Green Christmas', 'Go Tell It on the Mountain' and 'African Noel.'

Eddie Cumberbatch gave a pore-raising rendition of 'Then Shall The Righteous Shine' with Myrtle Cumberbatch as accompanist and the ever-popular and inspirational 'Sing Sweet and Low' with John Jacob as accompanist.

During the service Dr. Bishop gave some insight into the new direction she intended to take the choir for 2009. She stressed the importance of "working together to create a space within which we can hear a still small voice of calm." Using music as the medium through which this space can be created, Dr. Bishop intends to continue the "Ministry of Music" with the Lydians, aiming to "take our gifts and our song to where the people are." Whether this ministry will take the form of a nation-wide road tour or something different remains to be seen! The evening ended with the Lydians giving a spirited rendition of Parang favourites, 'Alegria', 'La Pascualidad' and 'Anda Parrandero' written by friends of the Lydians, Los Tocadores.

Overall, the Lydians and Dr. Bishop would like to thank all those who came out on the nights of our free "hill concerts" in Morvant, Gonsales and Laventille and to the special concert presentations at San Fernando Hill and Mount St. Benedict. Also, we would like to say a special thank you to The WITCO Desperadoes who joined with us in this journey to bring some peace and music to the Hills of Trinidad and Tobago.

2008 ended on a somber note as the Lydian community mourned the passing of Mr Hade, long-standing caretaker of the Bishop Anstey High School grounds. Mr. Hade passed away the 30th of December. His funeral was held on Friday 2nd January 10 am at All Saints Anglican Church. During his tenure at Bishop Anstey High, he was ever helpful to the Lydians during our rehearsals and always saw to our comfort while we practiced at the school. Our most sincere condolences to his family and to the administration and students of the Bishop Anstey High School.

To our members, rehearsal begins for the new year on Monday 12th of Janurary 2009 at 7:30 pm in the Bishop Anstey High School Hall. An announcement on the blueprint for yet another year of glorious music will be made. See you there and stay tuned to the Lydians Online (http://www.thelydianstt.com) and this blog for further updates on all things Lydians for the rest of the year!

The Lydians Blogging Spot!

2008-12-24T06:43:00.000-08:00

Greetings Friends in Music!

This is the Lydians Blog. A venture endorsed by the younger singers among us, as a place on the Internet where we can keep all our appreciators and friends aware and up-to-date on our concerts, events and performances for 2009 and beyond.

This spot will be used as both a media release center as well as a noticeboard for all things on The Lydians. Look out for updates and have a very Merry Christmas, and a Bright and Prosperous New Year!

The Lydians.

The Lydians, Trinidad and Tobago

Calling all singers and musicians! - New Musica Season 2012 and beyond!

The Archbishop of PAN! - Tribute to Dr. Pat Bishop by Len "Boogsie Sharp" Featuring the Lydians

The Lydians are PROUD to present, "The Archbishop of PAN!" A tribute song to the life and amazing journey of Dr. Pat Bishop, TC!

This song was written by calypsonian G.B. arranged by Len "Boogsie" Sharp. PHASE II Pan Groove will perform this song for the 2011 Panorama competition! Please share the song around to all friends, well wishers and former students"Pat Bishop, We will Always Love You!"

Special Greetings from the Vitiers, Cuba.

Cantando GLORIA! Gracias por La Musica!

Bravo! Encore!

Winterreise - Success!

Lydians presents ‘Winterreise’ at Little Carib

Memorial Service for Pat Bishop and "Winterreise"

A Tribute to Pat Bishop's life with the Lydians

The passing of Dr. Pat Bishop.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

MISA CUBANA - Gracias por La Musica!

A well-attended first night at the Lydians production of MISA CUBANA!

Ave Maria for Cuba - Jose Maria Vitier

Bienvenido a T&T, Maestro Vitier!

MISA CUBANA Launch a Success!

"MISA CUBANA" Media Launch 15th November @ Bishop Anstey High School POS

Lydians to perform its 8th Religious Mass for Christmas 2010!

New Years Day! BACH meets BRADLEY - a concert and public discussion offered to all who love music!

THANK YOU!

Imaging Messiah...Five days to show time…

Artistic Collaborations abound for the Lydians performance of Handel's Messiah!

On the journey to The Lydians performance of Handel's Messiah - rehearsal notes (Monday 30th November 2009, BAHS Hall Port of Spain)

The Lydians salute Queen’s Hall with Handel’s Messiah at Christmas

Artwork for The Lydians performance of Handel's Messiah (with steelpan)

Updates on the Lydians performance of Handel's Messiah (with Steelpan)!

Handel for Christmas!

THE LYDIANS CELEBRATE 30 YEARS OF MUSIC.

A New Lydian Direction for 2009!

The Lydians Blogging Spot!

This song was written by calypsonian G.B. arranged by Len "Boogsie" Sharp. PHASE II Pan Groove will perform this song for the 2011 Panorama competition! Please share the song around to all friends, well wishers and former students

"Pat Bishop, We will Always Love You!"