The Philharmonic Orchestra of Jamaica (POJ) will be hosting its 8th season of Spring Concerts from May 17-19 at the University Chapel, UWI Mona.

The three-day event will feature some of the country’s leading instrumentalists, with solo performances from Rafael Salazar (clarinettist), Jovani Williams (violinist) and Archie Dunkley (organist). 

With offerings of classical music from popular composers such as Mozart, Strauss, Albioni and Bizet, the orchestra will add original works from locally acclaimed Jamaican composers including Peter Ashbourne and Jon Williams.

“The audience will enjoy our eclectic programming that includes classical works from well-loved symphonies, concertos and operatic overtures along with modern pieces that draw on our rich Jamaican culture and Latin American influences,” Franklin Halliburton, conductor and music director of the POJ pointed out.

“For those who missed the premiere of the full Marley Symphony in 2023, we will be presenting this again as it is such a significant artistic work for Jamaica,” he continued.

The series of concerts has become a popular event on Kingston’s music calendar and is eagerly awaited by classical music enthusiasts from all over Jamaica.

Executive Chairman of the POJ  Andrew Ho explained that this year’s Spring Concert will be extended to three consecutive nights  due to the increased support.

“May 2023 Spring Concert at the University Chapel was a sizzling event — packed to capacity, and I expect the same turnout for this year,” he stated

The Philharmonic Orchestra of Jamaica is a non-profit group formed in 2013 with the aim of maintaining a high-quality orchestra for the benefit of the country. It seeks to promote classical music and, specifically, Jamaican-composed music and to allow musicians, conductors, and composers to express their talent and pursue a productive career in the classical performing arts.