The rhythm of Key West lives in more than palm-lined streets and sunset applause—it lives in the hands of kids learning steel pan, the breath behind a sax, and the beat of a second line that heals a community. We sit down with Executive Director Kawana from the Bahama Village Music Program to explore how free music education keeps Bahamian and Cuban roots alive while opening new doors with a DJ class that pulls teens into the fold. From first lessons to festival stages, this is a story about culture as a living classroom and mentorship as the backbone of local pride.
You’ll meet Matthew, a young saxophonist whose national anthem solos and soulful tributes led to Berklee acceptance and scholarship support. His journey is powered by the Crooks Second Line, a February tradition that raises funds to send students to Berklee’s Aspire program while honoring loved ones with a Key West–style parade. Names are spoken, horns sing, Junkanoos march, and the island remembers together—grief and joy intertwined in the most Conch way possible.
We also dig into the everyday work: teaching across genres so kids build real range, shouting out the teachers and board members who keep the program humming, and celebrating the Pep Squad’s high-octane school spirit. Beyond the music, we talk about the village that still looks out for its youth, the loss of old hangouts that once kept teens busy, and the fight to preserve what matters—Goombe homecomings, the Conch accent, and the sense that neighbors show up without being asked. Kawana’s definition of Conch pride lands it: unconditional love, loud and clear. And joy? It’s the spark in a kid’s eyes when the music finally clicks.
If this conversation moved you, share it with a friend, subscribe for more local stories, and leave a quick review to help others find the show. Want to help send a Key West kid to Berklee? Donate and spread the word—your support keeps the rhythm going.
