Rahming_MUSI322: Versatility in Caribbean Music

This blog will focus on the theme of Versatility in Caribbean music.

Background of Versatility in Music

According to the book, Tour de Force, versatility in music occurs when “musicians engage in a wide range of musical practices in order to achieve a sustainable career in music.” Throughout history, versatility has been a common occurrence in music as musicians strived to build credible and sustainable careers in the music industry. Versatility in music is essential as it encourages an entrepreneurial mindset and boosts financial stability and reliability. Additionally, in today’s society, many artists in the Caribbean have another source of income unrelated to music to ensure financial security.

Customary practices that display versatility include:

Performance
Instruction

Examples of performance and instruction include playing an instrument or composing music. Ludwig van Beethoven was born in Germany on December 17th, 1770 eventually becoming one of the greatest composers ever to live. Ludwig van Beethoven displayed versatility in music as the famous prodigy was a pianist and composer.

Photo taken from: https://www.cbc.ca/music/ludwig-van-beethoven-s-best-2-minutes-1.5789472

The video below highlights Beethoven’s versatility in music to achieve economic security.

Other Examples Displaying Versatility in Music

Another way versatility in music can be portrayed is by leading a choir. According to the article, Money From Music: Survey Evidence On Musicians’ Revenue and Lessons about Copyright Incentives by Peter DiCola, musicians play multiple roles including the administrator, live performer, teacher, or salaried player in a band, ensemble, or orchestra. In a survey conducted by DiCola, 89% of the respondents played two or more of these roles as successful musicians require flexibility in their careers.

An example of a Caribbean artist that displays versatility is a local Bahamian musician based in Freeport, The Bahamas known as Kevin G. Tomlinson. Mr. Tomlinson displays versatility as he plays instruments including the piano and is also a choir director. He is also the President and Managing Director of Kevin G. Tomlinson Academy in Freeport, Bahamas to increase financial security.