Belair High tops round one of school band competition

The preliminary rounds for the 10th season of Jamaica’s Best School Band competition is now a wrap. The round, divided into two events, was held at Pembroke Hall and St Catherine high schools, with first-time entrants St Mary High, St Thomas Technical High, Ferncourt High, Lennon High, as well as last season’s third-place winner Belair High; season one winner Pembroke Hall High and Papine High.

May Day High, unfortunately, could not make it.

With well-choreographed moves and a diverse set which included Pass di Dutchie by Musical Youth; Spain by American jazz pianist Chick Corea; and Killing Me Softly, The Fugees cover; Belair High School’s Major 7 Band wowed the audience and judges, who gave them an almost-perfect score of 48 out 50 points.

The Manchester-based school has been entering the competition since the third season.

Papine High and St Mary High also turned in impressive performances, as they received the second- and third highest scores, respectively, after round one. Seven schools will move on to the quarter-finals.

The bands are now getting ready to perform sets from the theme ‘Foundation Rules’, a tribute to the pioneers of Jamaican music.

The quarter- and semi-final rounds will be held on April 16 at the Edna Manley College, starting at 11 a.m. Four schools will move on to the final. The top three will win over half-million dollars in cash, among other prizes, courtesy of sponsors the CHASE Fund, Music Mart, Irie Yute Records, and Grace Foods.