The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission (ABFC) has successfully concluded its highly anticipated Music Development Masterclass, marking another significant investment in Antigua and Barbuda’s creative industries.
Held from June 8–12 at the Eustace Hill Campus in Coolidge, the intensive four-day programme brought together emerging and established artistes, producers, DJs, songwriters, managers, dancers, visual creatives, and entertainment professionals for immersive training to strengthen their knowledge of the modern music business.
Participants received focused instruction in songwriting, mixing and mastering, music distribution, copyright and intellectual property, marketing, and visual branding, and gained invaluable insights into career sustainability and international market development.
The programme was facilitated by internationally respected industry professionals:
- Stephen “Int’l Stephen” Phillip – DSM Music Group
- Daryll Gervais – Gervais Music
- Titan VCD – NXUS Collective Agency
Throughout the Masterclass, facilitators encouraged participants to stay connected, collaborate with one another, and continue developing their craft beyond the classroom. They also shared their professional contact details with attendees, inviting them to submit music, creative projects, and other materials for review and guidance.
Minister responsible for Carnival, Hon. Dwayne George, reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to empowering creatives through education and professional development. “ The creative industries are among the most promising sectors for economic growth and cultural advancement in Antigua and Barbuda. As a government, we remain committed to investing in opportunities that equip our creatives with the skills, knowledge, and industry connections needed to compete regionally and internationally. Programmes such as this Masterclass demonstrate our belief that our creative talent deserves every opportunity to succeed and build sustainable careers from their passion.”
Chairperson of the Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission, Ambassador Elizabeth Makhoul , urged creatives to make full use of the available free developmental opportunities. “ The Festivals Commission remains committed to creating pathways for growth within the creative sector. We are providing these programmes free of charge because we believe in the immense potential of our people. My appeal to creatives is simple: take advantage of every opportunity. Show up, engage, ask questions, and invest in your own development. The knowledge and connections gained through programmes like these can be transformative.”
Lead facilitator Stephen “Int’l Stephen” Phillip praised participants’ enthusiasm and potential throughout the week. “ It’s clear that the next generation is hungry, and they’re asking the right questions. The level of engagement we’ve seen over the past few days has been impressive. I genuinely believe there are quite a few global stars being born right here in Antigua and Barbuda.” Stewart also revealed that discussions have already begun on an exciting collaborative project with local creatives as Antigua and Barbuda prepares to celebrate a historic milestone. “We’re already working on something special for Antigua Carnival 70 with some of the talented individuals we’ve met during this programme. What we’re building is what I like to call ‘The Carnival 70th Anthem’, something that captures the spirit, energy, and legacy of Antigua Carnival while showcasing local talent on a bigger stage.
At the conclusion of the programme, participants were presented with certificates recognizing their commitment to professional development and continued growth within the creative industries.
The Music Development Masterclass is part of the Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission’s ongoing strategy to strengthen the nation’s creative economy by equipping creatives with the tools, knowledge, and networks needed to transform talent into sustainable business opportunities and globally competitive careers.