What is your role at Cushman?
Currently at the High School, I teach various music and band classes, including a group piano class and chorus. In addition, I coordinate the Cushman High Band Club, and serve as the person responsible for managing sound at the school’s major events.
Tell us about your educational background and/or special achievements.
I have a B.A. in Geography from the University of the West Indies; post-graduate Diploma in Education (Music) from the Mico University College; and Rookie Teacher of the Year at MAST Academy (2007).
Tell us about your accomplishments or career highlights in/outside Cushman.
I have been involved with music for most of my life. Born in London and raised in Kingston, Jamaica, I got my start singing individually and with school groups, often participating in national competitions. I was awarded a scholarship to participate in a brass program at the Jamaica School of Music (now Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts) while at the tender age of 10 and continued studying there for a year after. However, I didn’t discover my flair for keyboards until years later, through work with various local bands and choirs in and around Kingston. Now, I play the piano, keyboards, drums and flute. I am also a singer, songwriter, producer, and an educator, teaching music and directing bands at different levels, as well as teaching piano, drums and theatre at different studios. As a keyboardist, I have played for many different artists, including Bob Andy, King Yellowman, Beres Hammond, Freddie McGregor, Diana King, Jo Mersa Marley, Nadine Sutherland, Luciano, Pluto Shervington, Tanya Stephens, Singing Melody, Da’Ville, Everton Blender, L.U.S.T., Arturo Tappin and Willie Stewart and friends. My production company, Vinni Hamilton Productions, is thriving, producing music for different artists of various genres.
Why you’re glad to be an educator at Cushman
I have always believed in doing all I can to ensure that each person achieves his or her very best in life. That is my passion. The Cushman School celebrates the potential in each person and allows me to pursue my passion.