Coletrain Music Academy teachers Coleman Smith and Bonnie Culpepper recently returned from a mini island tour in San Pedro Belize with fellow musician Alex Johnstone. They drank rum, snorkeled, and commuted either by golf cart or boat to open air palapa style venues packed with tourists, locals, and expats almost every single night. We were so very impressed with the people of Belize. There is an incredible closeness and community centered vibe there that felt familiar. You get the feeling that they all take care of each other. It was such a honor to witness the elated joy these three musicians brought to their audience each night. Watching people’s faces struck with amazement when Alex and Coleman took shredding solos made my heart flutter with pride. And when songbird Bonnie broke out her mouth trumpet skills I thought the audience would lose their minds. It was truly so fun to witness and is a reminder to never take for granted the access we have to live music. This trio made such a great impression with the venues they performed at that they have been invited back with an extended invitation to host a music workshop! So please do stay tuned for Caribbean Camp Coletrain news later this year…

Thank you again to Alex Johnstone for arranging this entire experience and to the Caribbean Villa Resort for hosting us! We look forward to collaborating with you again in the future and bringing more music to your incredible island!

Photo Credit: 1, 3, 10  Robbie Gondeck