Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission launches music development department

The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission (ABFC) has launched the Music Production and Artist Development Department to strengthen the nation’s creative economy. The new unit is designed to provide local musicians with professional training, including vocal coaching, songwriting support, performance training, music production, and stage development.

Through the initiative, emerging performers will gain access to established producers, songwriters, and artists from across the Caribbean. The program will feature songwriting workshops, masterclasses, and writers’ camps to help artists produce commercially competitive music. ABFC Chairperson Ambassador Elizabeth Makhoul stated that the department aims to create a “structured pathway that prioritises talent development, collaboration and industry readiness.”

In addition to training, the commission plans to establish a professional recording and production facility to help local talent produce world-class music. Devon ‘ChippyG’ Joseph Jr, lead of music production and artist development, noted that the department will focus on building the skills, confidence, and professional exposure of young artists.