Top Grenada school choir for concerts

GUYANA

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Georgetown, through St Pius X RC Church, is set to welcome the Presentation Brothers College Choir (PBC Choir) from Grenada, which will be visiting Guyana from July 24 to August 3.

According to a report from The Catholic Standard, the visit is being described as “a time of fellowship, worship, hope, cultural exchange, and inspiring music.”

As part of their mission, the PBC Choir will present a special concert in Georgetown, hosted by St Pius RC. The performance is scheduled for Sunday, July 27 at Our Lady of Fatima RC Church, Bourda.

Following their concert, the PBC Choir will also perform at the Echoes of Freedom Concert on Thursday, July 31, at the National Cultural Centre. “This special event, held on the eve of the Emancipation holiday, promises an evening filled with powerful harmonies, Caribbean rhythms, and messages of hope and liberation,” said the diocesan monthly.

The PBC Choir is an all-male ensemble, comprising over 50 current and past students of Presentation Brothers College in St George’s, Grenada. What began as a small school initiative “has blossomed” into a vibrant musical movement that champions discipline and hope.

According to the paper, “For 17 years, they have distinguished themselves through musical excellence, Catholic witness, and a deep commitment to preserving and promoting Caribbean culture.” Presentation Brothers College is a Catholic secondary school known for its high academic standards and values-based education. In keeping with the charism of the Presentation Brothers, the school encourages holistic development intellectually, spiritually, and creatively.

The Catholic Standard stated the choir is one of its most visible and impactful ministries, providing a platform for boys to express themselves while upholding Catholic and Caribbean values. Under the leadership of Olympia Lewis (Administrator) and Halim Brizan (Musical Director), and supported by a strong network of alumni, the choir has captivated audiences both locally and internationally.

Their notable appearances include three Caribbean Festival of Arts (Carifesta) events, a royal performance for Prince Harry, and performances at high-level meetings of the Heads of Government, including the Conference of Caricom Heads of Government (July 2024) and the 2nd Caribbean Heads Meeting (2023). In 2022, the choir received a standing ovation at the wedding of Hollywood actress Aisha Hinds and was featured in a viral video post by R&B singer Major.

Over the years, the PBC Choir has become a national symbol of youth excellence in Grenada, often called upon for high-profile State events, national celebrations, and community outreach efforts.

Their appearances at events such as the national Independence Day celebrations, State funerals, and interfaith services underscore their role not just as performers but as ambassadors of hope and unity.

The choir’s diverse and rich musical repertoire includes Classical, Gospel, Folk, Reggae, Calypso, R&B, and traditional Caribbean music, reflecting their commitment to musical and cultural richness. The choir frequently collaborates with local Grenadian artistes and performs at the island’s top venues, particularly during festive seasons.

“More than just performers, the young men of the PBC Choir are ambassadors of discipline, academic excellence, and national pride. Through their music ministry, they inspire both audiences and fellow youth across the region, embodying the values of unity, faith, and purpose,” said the news source.

At its core, the choir is rooted in faith. Many of the songs they sing are inspired by scripture, social justice, and spiritual reflection. In every note, there is a desire to honour God, uplift the community, and remind listeners of the beauty and strength of the Caribbean spirit.