Nassau, Bahamas – Culture Minister the Hon Charles Maynard is encouraging the addition of jazz, negro spirituals and opera to the Bahamian cultural experience.

He was announcing plans for a concert to benefit the Cancer Society of The Bahamas scheduled for Thursday, 7pm at Christ Church Cathedral. 

It will feature world-renowned baritone Dr Cleveland Williams and soprano Nakita Thompson-Wells, in a concert dubbed ‘A Pristine Affair’. It will feature early music of classical Italian composers, a cross-section of jazz and negro spirituals, American folklore, opera and more. 

“We are very happy when someone takes the ‘bull by the horn’ and does things that begin to grow that particular area of our culture,” Minister Maynard said. 

“To have a consistent resurgence of this type of expression does my heart good and makes us feel good that we are able to offer our support and you are able to continue your efforts.” 

Mr Maynard expressed the Ministry’s appreciation to the concert organizers for selecting the Cancer Society as the beneficiaries. He pledged the Ministry’s support in this and future endeavours. 

“The concert is a win-win situation as the benefits go to the Cancer Society,” he said. “Tremendous things have been done by the Cancer Society in terms of making people’s lives easier. It also helps with research.” 

“The menu is rich for everyone to find something that would be appealing. It promises to be a grand affair very tastefully done,” Dr Williams said. 

“This is the first of a concert series that we hope to have every year showcasing local titles in various recitals on behalf of the Cancer Society.  

“We’ve formed the Nassau City Opera for this purpose and plan to do more productions. I greatly admire the work that the Cancer Society is doing for Bahamians.” 

President of the Cancer Society Earle Bethel expressed his gratitude to Dr Williams for choosing the Cancer Society to benefit from the proceeds of the concert.