European, J’can musicians band together to jazz for children

EU ambassador to Jamaica, Dr Erja Askola, in collaboration with UNICEF Jamaica, hosted a jazz concert featuring acclaimed European saxophonist, composer, and arranger Pekka Pylkkänen, alongside renowned Jamaican pianist and composer Orville Hammond, with Leon ‘Mandela’ Duncan on bass and Clayon Samuels on drums.

The event brought together partners and stakeholders to celebrate music, culture, and solidarity in support of children affected by Hurricane Melissa. According to UNICEF, months after the hurricane, thousands of Jamaican children are still living with its consequences, with some learning in tents or damaged classrooms, sharing textbooks, and coping with disrupted routines.

During the event, Askola emphasised the significant role of music and culture in diplomacy and development, stating that “through history, jazz has connected people across continents. This evening is about music, but it is also about solidarity. We are therefore grateful to partner with UNICEF Jamaica, whose work for and with children makes a tangible difference in the lives of people across the country.”

UNICEF representative to Jamaica, Olga Isaza, shared her admiration for the resilience demonstrated by the children to move forward.

“We have supported psychosocial care for more than 1,500 children and are working to repair and climate-proof schools and water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) facilities, so that the next storm does not steal their future again. But we are not there yet. In too many communities, access to quality education is still constrained by damaged classrooms, intermittent water and electricity, and the sheer cost of getting children back to school,” she added.

Funds raised from the concert will support UNICEF programmes focused on helping children directly affected by Hurricane Melissa. Donations will help UNICEF provide essential assistance to children and will be directed to the areas of greatest need in Jamaica.