Calypso is Trinidad’s most significant lyrical and musical art. Throughout the island’s long and turbulent history, it has been a potent vehicle for social commentary and a voice for the aspirations and frustrations of a struggling people. Driving, syncopated rhythms and joyous soaring melodies often conceal what lies beneath the surface of the Caribbean’s most enduring form of protest music.

This workshop will introduce students to the musical craft and oral literature of calypso. Exploring the humourous narratives written by the great calypsonians over the years, they will encounter the history and society of the land and people from which this music emerged.
This workshop is relevant to the curricular requirements of a variety of subjects, including English, World Issues, History, Writer’s Craft, Black Studies and Music.

Biography:

Born and raised in Diego Martin, Trinidad, Drew Gonsalves is a singer and songwriter committed to promoting and reviving interest in traditional calypso. Founder and bandleader of Toronto-based calypso/roots reggae group Kobo Town, he performs in Canada, the US and Trinidad and his songs receive frequent airplay on the CBC and various college stations throughout the country. Drew is also an educator and has conducted workshops on calypso, dub and Caribbean music for classes at the University of Toronto, York University, Carleton University and the University of Ottawa, as well as for various high schools and youth groups in the Ottawa-Carleton region. He is a member of the Ontario College of Teachers, and taught English with the Peel District School Board before leaving to resume a career in music.