JN evokes Christmas spirit in Half-Way Tree with carols

The Jamaica National Group brought the warmth of the season straight to the heart of Half-Way Tree in St Andrew recently with pop-up performances by the National Chorale of Jamaica, Kingston College Choir, Immaculate Conception High School’s praise ensemble and a few select performances from talented employees. They delivered their performances from the steps at the entrance of the JN Bank Half-Way Tree branch in the middle of the busy urban centre.

For the third year in a row, Yuletide melodies delighted passers-by in what is becoming a welcome tradition of the season. Commuters, JN Group employees, and onlookers of all ages were swept up in the holiday cheer with expressions of togetherness and merriment befitting of what is deemed “the most wonderful time of the year”. Uplifting and familiar tunes echoed throughout the crowd, bringing much-needed joy to the city.

Local vendor Michael Stevenson, who plies his trade in the area daily, was extremely moved by the musical display.

“You know it’s a great feeling seeing everybody together celebrating the birth of Christ. People are taking their time to shop as well, so we are able to make a little extra dollars, which is a good thing,” he said.

It was a full concert performance as people gathered close to the steps of the bank to take in the harmonious sounds. First, the National Chorale of Jamaica and the KC Chapel Choir regaled the crowd with hymns and Christmas classics, while the Immaculate Conception High School praise ensemble and JN employees, Davell ‘D’Suave’ Thompson and Clara ‘CK’ Kahwa, provided more contemporary offerings. CK, who closed out the evening, engaged in a lively call-and-response wishing everyone a “Merry JN Christmas” with a catchy hook that had everybody singing along and moving their feet.

Winston Sterling, an enthusiastic participant in the crowd, was complimentary of the event.

“I’m here as a parent from the KC group, and even just seeing the girls from Immaculate it was a true joy. I’m just happy to see the youth being given a chance to display their raw talent – at the end of the day this is Jamaican culture, it had my heart singing, I’m feeling the vibe to dance in the streets!” he said with a smile.

He continued: “This brings me back to the unity of what I knew Jamaica to be, when I was a child. Having performances like this reminds us all to love one another and to treat each other with respect because that’s what this season is about.”