Basseterre, St. Kitts (November 16, 2005): The Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis received a "priceless cultural gift" from the Alan Lomax Archives in New York at a ceremony on Monday.
The Director of the Centre for Black Music Research in Chicago, Dr. Rosita Sands, presented a copy of the production of the Alan Lomax Caribbean Voyage 1962 field recordings of traditional folk music of St. Kitts and Nevis. The gift was given to the Nevis Historical and Cultural Society (NHCS). Mr. Lomax reportedly requested the action be carried out after his death.
The ceremony, which was hosted by the NHCS, was attended by senior officials from the Nevis Island Administration and the Federal Government, as well as cultural enthusiasts. Family members of the band performers, recorded by Mr. Lomax in the 60's were also present. The original band members were recognized as icons and were given copies of the CD of folklore music along with the first disbursement of royalties from the production.
Valentine "Tabu" Martin, one of the Federation's leading drummer, represented his late father Selwyn "Lallaps" Liddie whose memory is revered for his outstanding contribution to the traditional art from.
Martin as well as the Humming Birds String Band and Nevis masquerades entertained the gathering at the ceremony.
Director of Culture in St. Kitts Creighton Pencheon gave the vote of thanks. He told SKNIS that the celebration was very special.
