On September 30, a private screening of the new documentary “Journey,” was held at the Alpha School of Music (ASOM) campus. The 27 minute short film follows ASOM’s first graduating class as they prepare for their final year show and reflect on their past four years at the school.
In particular, the movie focused on graduates Jonathan Gordon (the first valedictorian), Zuri Gordon (the first female student), Alejandro Keating, and Sanje Landell (the first Alpha Vocational Training Centre student to complete a tertiary music program). With moving interviews, behind-the-scenes clips, and concert footage, viewers were shown an up-close look at the level of skill, dedication and teamwork needed for the students to complete their programme. Students highlighted the invaluable things they have gained from their four years at Alpha including technical prowess, confidence onstage and industry exposure. Also highlighted was the school’s emphasis on ensemble performance which not only created an encouraging, non-competitive atmosphere, but also fostered strong connections among students which may result in them continuing to play together as bandmates in the future.
At the screening, the film’s director, Gareth Daley, shared how his personal journey as a Jamaican in a creative field, deepened his desire to capture the experiences of ASOM’s graduates in order to inspire other budding creatives by showing them what’s possible. The documentary has been accepted into the local Skylark Film Festival with plans being developed to enter it into international film festivals and possibly to hold a school tour where it can be shown to students across the island.
Attendees included Sister Susan Frazer, RSM (Area Administrator, Sisters of Mercy of Jamaica), Ms. Marcia Tai Chun (CEO, Sisters of Mercy of Jamaica), members of the ASOM management team and faculty, two of the ASOM graduates from the film (i.e. Jonathan and Sanje), and several current students of the Alpha Vocational Training Centre. Supporters and friends of ASOM were also in attendance including a representative from American Friends of Jamaica (who has financially supported the school both this year and in previous years).
