Tobago Correspondent
Beachfront Jazz transformed into a lively party on Saturday night, with patrons singing along and dancing into the early hours at the Magdalena Grand Beach and Golf Resort in Lowlands.
The event, promoted by Black2Sugars, drew a strong crowd and featured a mix of high-quality local and international performances set against the scenic backdrop.
The signature event of the fourth annual Tobago Jazz, Music and Golf Weekend came alive midway through the show when a karaoke competition brought audience members into the spotlight.
With two paintings from The Art Gallery up for grabs, patrons showcased both their vocal ability and stage presence as they competed for top honours.
Football coach Peter Granville earned the loudest applause with his rendition of Is This Love by Bob Marley.
Speaking with the media after his win, Granville said performing was nothing new to him.
“It’s in my blood. It’s in my DNA. I used to sing in primary school and at Bishop’s High School. Since I retired from the THA, I do it as a hobby,” he said.
The runner-up also impressed with a confident performance of One in a Million, jokingly requesting his preferred painting after receiving loud applause.
The impromptu competition lifted the energy in the venue, drawing patrons to their feet as the house DJ kept the momentum going with an upbeat set.
Among the standout moments, a patron in a wheelchair captivated the crowd as she manoeuvred her chair in rhythm, matching the movements of her friends on the dance floor.
Internationally acclaimed saxophonist Jazmin Ghent then delivered a high-energy performance that left the audience in awe.
The award-winning artiste, who holds a PhD in Music Education, showcased her versatility with instrumental renditions of popular soca tracks, including Wedding Band and Cocoa Tea.
Her set became increasingly interactive as she moved through the crowd, serenading patrons who eagerly captured the moment on their phones.
Speaking afterward, Ghent said it was her first visit to Tobago and described the island as “amazing,” noting the venue’s picturesque ocean backdrop and relaxed atmosphere.
“There is a misconception—jazz can be for kids, it could be for older people. It doesn’t matter your age. Jazz is for everyone,” she said.
Reigning Calypso Monarch Terri Lyons closed the show with a commanding performance, sharing messages of gratitude and perseverance.
She thanked God for both opened and closed doors and paid tribute to her father, Superblue, with a rendition of Soca Baptist.
Lyons also revisited her breakthrough hit Meghan My Dear, reminding the audience of its sharp social commentary.
Earlier in the evening, Tobago pannist Gerard Balfour opened the event with an energetic medley, followed by performances from violinist Carryl Warner and former Music Festival winner Lletesha Sylvester. Guitarist Theron Shaw and bassist Ron Reid also delivered standout sets.
Kerry Roach, co-founder of Black2Sugars, expressed satisfaction with the turnout, describing the all-inclusive event as a success.
He noted that the opening golf tournament on Friday—introduced to attract more male patrons—was oversubscribed, with part of the proceeds going toward the purchase of a wheelchair for a child in need.
Roach also thanked the Tobago Festivals Commission for its support this year and said he is optimistic about the event’s future.
“We are proud of what we are doing. This is a work of love. It isn’t about money. I love music, and I love seeing people have a good time,” he said.
The Tobago Jazz, Music and Golf Weekend culminated yesterday evening with Fairways Jazz Under the Stars.
