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More students to benefit from February 1 concert featuring Jam-American mezzo-soprano Raehann Bryce-Davis

At one point, Shawn Richards thought he would settle for life as an auto mechanic—a dependable way to earn a living.

 Yet even then, his passion for music—specifically the guitar—simmered relentlessly beneath the surface, like a cauldron hanging over a roaring wood fire, impossible to ignore and always threatening to boil over. He often told himself that if music failed, at least he had a plan B. Music, however, had already claimed him.

Richards recalls that the imprint was made early. At just three years old, his parents bought him a toy guitar, and from that moment, music left an indelible mark on his soul. By age nine, his passion had intensified, but formal lessons were beyond his family’s means. Undeterred, he taught himself throughout his adolescent years. While attending St. Jago High School, he joined the Glee Club and performed regularly at school concerts, steadily sharpening his talent.

Fast forward to the present, and Shawn Richards is now recognised as a prominent Jamaican classical guitarist and respected classroom teacher. His craft was honed through formal training at the Edna Manley College for the Visual and Performing Arts, School of Music, before continuing his studies in Venezuela. There, he earned an Associate Degree in Classical Guitar Performance from the Fundación Conservatorio Vicente Emilio Sojo—an experience that profoundly shaped his teaching philosophy and enabled him to develop a distinctly Caribbean approach to classical guitar instruction in Jamaica.

“I owe a profound debt of gratitude to individuals such as Rosina Christina Moder, Executive Director of Music Unites Jamaica (MUJF), and other patrons of music education, including the late Jeffrey Cobham, Norman McCallum, classical guitarist, and organisations such as the CHASE Fund, who recognised and nurtured the essence of my passion for the guitar,” Richards shared.

“They went above and beyond to support my journey, enabling me to reach my full potential in the pursuit of musical excellence—a passion I am now privileged to pass on to other students, ensuring the preservation of the classical music tradition. For this, I am forever grateful.”

Richards’ innovative teaching method, which integrates Caribbean perspectives into classical guitar instruction, has been embraced across preparatory schools, high schools, and universities, leaving a lasting imprint on generations of students.

Reflecting on the Foundation’s impact, Moder noted: “When we look back at the results of our efforts and the countless young people whose lives we have touched in this positive way—despite the challenges—we are still motivated to continue fulfilling our mission for as long as we can. At the same time, we aim to bring on board other individuals and organisations who are sensitive to the power of unlocking creative passion in those who thirst for music. There is so much talent out there—they just need the opportunity, guidance and the financial support to pursue their musical dreams.”

Continuing the Mission

The Foundation’s upcoming concert, A Moment of Music with Raehann Bryce-Davis, featuring the world-renowned Jam-American mezzo-soprano, forms part of MUJF’s ongoing mission to provide scholarships to exceptionally talented but financially challenged musicians. 

The concert will be held under the distinguished patronage of The Hon. Ambassador Audrey Marks, OJ, MP, on Sunday, February 1, 2026, at the Vera Moody Concert Hall, Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts. Proceeds from the concert will support scholarships and contribute to MUJF’s ongoing research on Jamaican composers.

Accompanying Bryce-Davis will be some of Jamaica’s most accomplished musicians, including Roger N. Williams (Dean, Edna Manley School of Music) on piano; Emily Elliott on cello; Jovani Williams on violin and viola; Peter Ashbourne and Gabriel Walters on violin; and Reuben Betty on percussion. A small band will also be performing, led by Jeremy Ashbourne on drums.

A special highlight of the visit will be an exclusive Masterclass and Workshop led by Bryce-Davis for students of the Edna Manley School of Music and professional classical vocalists.

“This rare opportunity will focus on performance practice and advanced vocal techniques, offering participants invaluable insight from one of today’s most celebrated operatic voices,” said Janine Coombs, Deputy Director of MUJF. The workshop is scheduled for Thursday, January 29, with the masterclass following on Friday, January 30.