The sound of violins, cellos, flutes, brass and youthful voices filled the sanctuary of First Assembly of God on Crewe Road Thursday evening, 4 June, as Jubilate celebrated its 10th anniversary with a special concert titled “A Celebration of Sound”.
The free community concert featured more than 50 young performers from the programme’s junior and senior ensembles, showcasing not only their musical talents, but also the remarkable journey of an initiative that began with cardboard violins and a vision to change lives.
Parents, supporters and community members packed the church and responded warmly to a programme that highlighted a decade of achievement for the government-approved after-school initiative.
Founded in 2016 by Carole Kirkconnell and supported from its earliest days by Maral Dzaghouni, Jubilate was established to provide children with a safe environment where they could develop discipline, academic skills and self-confidence through music.
During the anniversary celebrations, organisers reflected on the programme’s humble beginnings. When shipping delays prevented the arrival of the first violins in January 2016, volunteers famously created and decorated cardboard violins so students could begin learning immediately while waiting for the real instruments to arrive.
Making an impact
Ten years later, Jubilate has impacted the lives of 168 primary school students and 51 high school students. The programme currently serves 31 junior students and 30 seniors, many of whom have progressed into leadership roles within their schools. Since 2018, Jubilate participants have included 11 head boys and head girls, 8 deputy head boys and head girls, and 47 prefects.
The programme brings together students from government primary schools east of George Town, creating friendships and connections that transcend district boundaries.
Addressing the audience, organisers paid tribute to the many teachers, volunteers, parents, donors and government partners who helped sustain the programme through its first decade.
Special recognition was given to the Cayman Islands government and the Department of Education Services for their support during 2024 when Jubilate faced the possibility of closure after losing its longtime home. Government assistance and a new base at the Performing Arts Building at Clifton Hunter High School allowed the programme to continue and expand.
While music remains at the heart of Jubilate, organisers emphasised that the programme’s mission extends far beyond performance. Students receive homework assistance, literacy and numeracy support, pastoral guidance and opportunities to develop leadership skills and positive life habits.
Today, students learn a wide range of instruments including violin, cello, flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, tuba, bass guitar and drums.
Looking ahead, Jubilate hopes to expand its reach to additional schools, strengthen its senior programme and eventually establish a permanent home with a dedicated performance space.
The organisation is also seeking community support in several areas. In addition to volunteers who can assist with academics, organisers say they urgently need help revitalising their online presence. Jubilate is looking for a company or individual willing to donate social media expertise, website support or provide those services at a substantially reduced cost to help the programme tell its story and connect with potential donors and volunteers.
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