Steadman Fuller (third left), custos rotulorum for the parish of Kingston (representing the governor general), joins National Chorale of Jamaica’s (NCOJ) Chairman Christopher Samuda (left) and retired Musical Director Winston Ewart (second left) in the celebration at King’s House last Sunday, May 25, after presenting the NCOJ Medal of Excellence to recipients — (from fourth left) Earl Jarrett; Marguerite Banks, widow of the late Donald Addison Banks, who accepted the award on her late husband’s behalf; Hernal L Hamilton; Dr Arthur J S Geddes; and Christine MacDonald. Missing is awardee Jasmin Holness.
May 31, 2025
National Chorale of Jamaica (NCOJ) hosted its signature Evening of Excellence on Sunday, May 25, amidst the grandeur of the King’s House ballroom, under the distinguished patronage of Governor General Sir Patrick Allen to celebrate six distinguished Jamaicans whose exemplary contributions have helped shape both the nation and the legacy of this esteemed 53-year-old musical institution.
NCOJ Chairman Christopher Samuda reflected on the significance of the awards: “The Medal of Excellence is, indeed, from the heart of our voices. Excellence is an enviable standard and a priceless experience which exhorts us, in our ministry at the National Chorale of Jamaica, to preserve the eminence of music…”
The medal recognises individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the NCOJ’s growth and development, including both performing and non-performing members, as well as Jamaicans who have achieved distinction in various fields, especially in classical music on the international stage.
The inaugural medal was presented in 2015 to internationally renowned bass-baritone Sir Willard White. The awardees since then have been, the late Rev Easton Lee, the late Marilyn Bryce-MacDonald, Carole Reid, Winston Ewart, Vivian Crawford, Dawn Marie James, and Marjorie Bayley.