Music Of Nevis
Feel da beats, hear da rythm and move your body!
Beaches, sunsets, beauty, relaxation, culture, MUSIC, and fun all come to mind when thinking of Nevis West Indies.
Nevis culture is definately one of a kind and since the days of slavery, folk dances and folk music have been a part of almost all island life. When the field workers on plantaions were given free time for leisure activities, they would often sing to lighten moods. Nevis music is very distinguishable.
After slavery dissappeared, music still remained at the heart of the island dwellers. Then came along Culturama, an annual cultural festival held each summer since 1974. Things like traditional folk dances, such as the masquerade, the mocko-jumbies that walk on stilts, cowboys and indians, and plait the ribbon, a the may pole dance can all be witnessed during this week long event.
Big Drum, the String Band, Steel Pan and Calypso music play a HUGE role in Nevis culture. These are the most popular genres of music found and enjoyed in Nevis. Big Drum, is African originated. It consists of a bass, kettle drums and fife. The string band or “scratch band,” consists of around 10 musicians.
There are currently three string bands on Nevis Island. They entertain on the island at hotels, and at events like weddings. Nevis youth is learning to play the instruments in primary school, and some of the bands have younger members to keep the tradition alive. Kaiso contests are also very popular.
VON 895 RADIO became the island’s first radio station on June 18, 1988. This event was witnessed by hundreds of residents and visitors, including over 250 residents of the British Virgin Islands, the wider Caribbean and the United States.
WINN FM 98.9 caters to St. Kitts and Nevis. They provide “local, Caribbean and International Programming, to contribute meaningfully to the information, awareness and the development of our nation and the region through the building of educated and informed communities.”
Tune in and listen to those stations if you are curious and check out some types of music to get you in the island mind set…
Nevis Lover ~ Becca Briley 
