Chippie talks to the students of Blairwood Academy in Nassau Photo: Felicity Ingraham
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Nassau, Bahamas - The students of Blairwood Academy got became a band for a day, backing
up a 65 year veteran in Bahamian music, the legendary John "Chippie" Chipman. Chippie came to visit the school at the behest of the school's
music director, Dr. Diane Major. She wanted the children to learn more
than just the classics - so she reached out to an indigenous musician
with a worldwide appeal.
Chippie told the students not to underestimate rake n'
scrape, an authentic Bahamian style of music. He said rake n' scrape
has taken him around the world to every continent on the globe. He says
his band has been so successful because they don't have to buy
instruments. They are resourceful and find items like paint cans,
buckets, steel drums, pigeon peas, goat skin, and of course, a saw, to
make their instruments.
Kim Kooskalis, principal, was elated at the visit,
because all of the children responded so well and were truly impacted by
Chippie's presence. He was fun and down to earth but also gave the
kids serious messages like, "Manners and respect can take you around the
world".
Children of Blairwood Academy participate in rake 'n' scrape music, indigenous music of The Bahamas Photo: Felicity Ingraham
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Chippie and the students of Blairwood Academy get into some rake 'n' scrape music. Photo: Felicity Ingraham
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Children of Blairwood Academy participate in rake 'n' scrape music, indigenous music of The Bahamas Photo: Felicity Ingraham
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Parents, teachers and students of Blairwood Academy participate in rake 'n' scrape music, indigenous music of The Bahamas let by Chippie. Photo: Felicity Ingraham
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Chippie on the drums
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