Chinese-sponsored music school opens in Grenada

A new music school which is hoped to help develop youth and foster creative industries was opened in Grenada on May 21 .

Speaking at the grand opening of the Belle Vue Music School, Yang Shu, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Grenada commended the successful completion of the project.

He said that the project serves as an excellent example of China’s small and beautiful livelihood projects and a concrete follow-up to the implementation of consensus reached during the prime minister’s visit to China.

As music is the soul of culture, he wished the Belle Vue Music School to grow into a cradle of musical talents for St. David and the whole of Grenada. He expressed the hope that students of the school would have the opportunity to conduct cultural exchanges in China in the future.

“Since China and Grenada resumed its diplomatic ties in 2005, the Chinese embassy has implemented many community level livelihood projects across Grenada. We also call these small and beautiful projects. Today's Belle Vue Music School is exactly one of these successful examples,” the ambassador said.

Grenada’s Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell, also spoke at the event. He thanked China for helping residents of Belle Vue realize their musical dreams. He called on local residents to maintain and make good use of the facilities. Grenada stands ready to deepen exchanges and cooperation with China and elevate bilateral relations to a new height, he said.

“It is small in size but great in value. I'm truly proud that the Chinese embassy has been able to support the meaningful projects…The money has been spent on intentionally refurbishing the space on the purchase of furniture, and…top tier musical equipment to ensure that the students and the tutors have the very best to ensure that we can unleash the creative potential of our young people,” Mitchell said.

“And so to our young people of Belle Vue and surrounding villages and from those who may come from the wider parish, this space belongs to you. When you look at the sign behind it does not say government of Grenada. It does not say member of parliament.  It says Belle Vue Music School. And Belle Vue therefore is the community. And therefore, it is incumbent upon you, the young people, to make sure that you protect, that you cherish, and that you use this space to your benefit,” he said.

Adrian Thomas, Minister for Tourism, Creative Economy and Culture, Delma Thomas, Minister for Youth and Sports, permanent secretaries of the government, were also present.

The Chinese embassy-sponsored music school cost $299,251.61.