Minister Honors Music Education Pioneers
On October 25, Education Minister Hon. Sharie B. de Castro paid tribute to three local music educators at a Ministry of Education fundraiser aboard the Logos Hope book ship. The event raised awareness and support for the Elmore Stoutt High School and Bregado Flax Education Centre music programmes while celebrating the legacies of Dr. Charles Wheatley, Arthur Sellwood and Clennel Vanterpool.
Sharie B. de Castro, Minister for Education, Youth Affairs & Social Development, led a tribute to three pioneers of music education at the Ministry of Education’s Musical Showcase held aboard the Logos Hope book ship. The event doubled as a fundraiser to support the music departments of Elmore Stoutt High School (ESHS) and the Bregado Flax Education Centre.
Charles Wheatley, widely recognised as a visionary pioneer of music education in the Virgin Islands, and Mr. Clennel Vanterpool, both celebrated for carrying forward Dr. Wheatley’s work and inspiring generations of young musicians. Minister de Castro acknowledged their decades-long commitment to teaching, mentoring and creating pathways for students to pursue the arts locally and internationally.
Participants described a moving evening of performances, gratitude and reflection on the role music has played in BVI culture. Attendees included students, current and former music teachers, ministry officials and community members. The showcase highlighted student ensembles alongside veteran performers, illustrating the continuity between the island’s musical past and its future.
Organisers said proceeds from the fundraiser will go to strengthening music education at ESHS and Bregado Flax, helping to secure instruments, sheet music, performance opportunities and teaching support. Music programmes in the Territory have historically depended on community fundraising and targeted ministry support; events like the Logos Hope showcase aim to bridge gaps and broaden access for young people across the islands.
The choice of the Logos Hope as a venue underscored the collaborative spirit of the evening. The ship, known for its floating bookshop and community events while visiting ports, provided a unique setting that drew attention to the fundraiser and allowed residents to celebrate local talent in an international context.
For many in the BVI, the honourees are more than teachers: they are cultural custodians whose work opened doors for students to become educators, performers and even songwriters with careers beyond the Territory. Minister de Castro encouraged continued investment in arts education, noting that music builds discipline, pride and opportunities for youth.
The Ministry promised more highlights and coverage of the showcase in coming days. Community members looking to support the islands’ music programmes are encouraged to contact the Ministry of Education or the respective schools for information on donations and upcoming events.
Primary source: JTV