Philharmonic Orchestra of Jamaica Spring Concert this weekend

The Philharmonic Orchestra of Jamaica (POJ) will have Jamaica's highly acclaimed singer Karen Smith, as its special guest at their Spring Concert season on Saturday, April 28, and Sunday, April 29, at the Swallowfield Chapel.

Smith will showcase her mastery in several musical genres, including jazz, blues, pop and reggae, uniquely fused with the classical instrumentation of the orchestra.

Also appearing with her will be husband and rocksteady bassist extraordinaire Clifton 'Jackie' Jackson, who was recently recognised by the Jamaica Reggae Industry Association (JARIA) for his distinguished contribution to the local music industry.

Smith has performed with several international artistes - among them James Ingram, Natalie Cole, Chuck Mangione, Smokey Robinson, Seal and Harry Belafonte, who described her as a "wonderfully gifted artiste".

The Philharmonic Orchestra of Jamaica will be performing Beethoven's magnificent Symphony No. 5 in C Minor to mark its fifth Spring Concert season. The audience will also be treated to works by Dvorak and local composers Dr Andrew Marshall, with arrangements by the brilliant Peter Ashbourne and Jon Williams.

In the words of conductor Franklin Halliburton: "It will be both a memorable, as well as, a significant event in the country's rich musical heritage." The Orchestra has been building an enviable reputation with a growing fan base over the last few years, and has collaborated with top performers, including Ana Strachan, Lori Burnett and the Jamaica Youth Chorale.

Last year's concert season received high acclaim and featured The University Singers, which Halliburton also directs.