Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission Launches Four-Day Songwriting Workshop to Develop Local Talent

Aspiring songwriters in Antigua and Barbuda will soon have an opportunity to turn their musical ideas into professionally developed songs, as the Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission (ABFC) prepares to host an intensive four-day workshop aimed at nurturing the country's next generation of music industry professionals.

The workshop, scheduled for November 24 to 27, 2026, will bring together emerging songwriters and experienced Caribbean music producers for practical training in songwriting, recording, music production and the business of entertainment.

The initiative forms part of the Commission's efforts to strengthen the local creative industry through its newly established Music Production and Artist Development Department, headed by Devon "ChippyG" Joseph Jr.

Two accomplished Caribbean music professionals, Kitwana Israel of AdvoKit Productions and Emmanuel Rudder, will facilitate the sessions, sharing their experience working with some of the region's biggest entertainers.

Israel, who has more than a decade of experience in music production and songwriting, has collaborated with major Caribbean performers, including Kes, Machel Montano, Bunji Garlin, Patrice Roberts, Nailah Blackman, Skinny Fabulous and Freetown Collective.

Rudder brings more than 20 years of industry experience, having written and co-written several regional hits for artistes such as Machel Montano, Kes, Patrice Roberts, Benjai, Denise Belfon and the late Ricardo Drue. His achievements include two Soca Monarch-winning productions and the co-written Olympic anthem "Conqueror," performed by Kes.

Unlike conventional workshops that focus primarily on theory, participants will be guided through the entire creative process, from developing an original song concept to writing, recording and preparing the finished product for release.

Training will cover songwriting techniques, storytelling, freestyling, vocal production, harmonies, editing, copyright protection, publishing and music rights management.

Participants will also explore music distribution, marketing, contracts, pricing and the growing influence of artificial intelligence on the entertainment industry.

The programme will conclude with media training designed to help emerging artistes strengthen their public image, handle radio interviews and communicate effectively with audiences.

Chairperson of the Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission, Ambassador Elizabeth Makhoul, described the initiative as an important investment in the country's creative future.

"Talent exists in abundance across Antigua and Barbuda, but talent must be nurtured, developed, and connected to opportunity," Makhoul said.

She explained that the Commission's newly established department is intended to provide local artistes, songwriters and producers with greater access to professional development and industry expertise.

"This workshop is not a one-off initiative. It is part of a larger vision to develop our music ecosystem, empower our creatives, and ensure that Antiguan and Barbudan music continues to make its mark across the world," she added.

With only a limited number of spaces remaining, interested individuals are being encouraged to register as soon as possible.

Registration can be completed by submitting a name, email address and contact number via WhatsApp at (268) 727-9201 or by emailing [email protected]. Participants will receive confirmation of registration through WhatsApp or email.

The venue and daily schedule for the workshop will be announced at a later date.

The Festivals Commission said the programme reflects its broader commitment to developing Antigua and Barbuda's cultural sector by connecting local talent with experienced regional professionals and creating opportunities for long-term growth within the music industry.