The Antigua and Barbuda Festivals Commission (ABFC) proudly announces the successful conclusion of its six-day Music Producers’ Masterclass: Audio Essentials, with sixty-one (61) participants receiving certification of completion. Participants left inspired, empowered, and prepared to elevate Antigua and Barbuda’s music industry.
Led by internationally acclaimed producer Kasey Phillips, CEO and Founder of Precision Productions, the Masterclass provided world-class training to local producers, engineers, songwriters, and musicians. Phillips, renowned for his work with global icons like Ciara, Chris Brown, and Toni Braxton, as well as Caribbean legends such as Machel Montano, Bunji Garlin, and Antigua’s own Tian Winter, was accompanied by key members of his Precision Productions team. Together, they created an immersive experience at the State Insurance Company Limited Conference Centre, Independence Avenue.
The energy throughout the week was electric. One artist shared: “Money well spent by the Commission. From day one, Kasey spoke a language I’ve been trying to tap into. Even the engineering component, something I knew nothing about, offered valuable insights. Watching him work was witnessing genius in motion.” While another participant added, “It was humbling to see Antigua’s top artists, DJs, and producers leave egos at the door. We came as a unit and soaked up every offering from the Masterclass.”
At the Closing Ceremony, Ms Petley O’Keiffe, Director of National Festivals, praised participants for embracing the chance to hone their craft and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s creative economy. While Sen. Hon. Michael Freeland, Deputy Chair of ABFC, delivered remarks on behalf of Ambassador Elizabeth Makhoul, Chairlady of the Commission, affirming her steadfast dedication to seeing Antiguans and Barbudans’ music shine on the global stage, a mission this Masterclass directly supports.
Hon. Daryll S. Matthew, Minister of Education, Sports, and Creative Industries, said, “One way to achieve immortality is through great music, and this is your passport. Your commitment to attending all these Masterclasses demonstrates your dedication to producing world-class work. One participant told me, ‘Minister, after this class, my prices gone up!’ That’s the kind of growth we want to see. I want to see each of you as a professional creative, not as a part-time side gig, but as a career. I look forward to seeing one of you one day, teaching a Masterclass, imparting knowledge with renowned accolades, just like Kasey.”
Kasey Phillips himself concluded the training with words of encouragement: “Don’t be afraid to try new things. We have created a community and space here to lean on each other. That’s how I was able to build my own network and collaborate on major projects.”
The workshop also featured a historic moment with Oungku of the Original Burning Flames, who shared rare insight into the genesis of Benna Music, giving participants a deeper understanding of Antigua’s musical heritage. Inspired by this, Phillips and the participants created two crossover rhythms, one officially titled the Antigua Festivals Rhythm. Phillips urged artists to jump on this rhythm and begin recording now in preparation for Carnival 2026.
The Masterclass concluded with the debut of an original track, written and produced by participants with vocals by Tian Winter during the workshop, a symbol of collaboration, growth, and national pride.
The ABFC extends its heartfelt thanks to its sponsors and partners for making this initiative possible: the Government of Antigua and Barbuda, the Citizens by Investment Unit. We would also like to thank those companies that supported this initiative: Stonewall Sound System, KOSCAB, Chef Beard, Joe Mikes.
This Masterclass, powered by the ABFC, is more than just a class; it’s a movement. It’s designed to equip our producers, engineers, and musicians with the knowledge and tools they nee
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