A Musical Appreciation Awards hosted on Sept. 14 at the Water Falls Lounge at 4703 Church Ave. in Brooklyn, was a heartfelt tribute to stalwart Guyanese artists of jazz melodies whose versatility and skills were also showcased at a Cornel Veira and Friends Jazz session.
Lady Ira Lewis, an acclaimed clarinet player, who has stirred the pot of music by promoting the talents of her equal, felt it fitting to acknowledge the skills, and resilience of a group of entertainers, who were presented with Lifetime Achievement Plaque, Legislative Citation from Senator Britinee Timberlake, who represents the 34th District in New Jersey, United Nations Platinum Who’s Who Certificate, and Actor Danny Glover Power of Dream Appreciation Award.
Cornel Veira, a veteran drummer for over 40 years, received the Master Musician Lifetime Achievement Award.
“Your Talent and Perseverance have paid off. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition, from Lady Ira Lewis and the Guyana American Heritage Foundation,” read the plaque.
Veira, one of the most celebrated, learned the drums at a very young age and is masterful on the instruments. He has performed with many noted string bands in Guyana, including the Telstars, After Dark, Night People, and many more. He has played on tracks It Burns Inside, “Read it Over,” and “Anything I Can Do “ with late Guyanese singer Johnny Braff.
Veira has performed with Award-winning groups, the Stylistics and the Manhattans. His stirring performance on the drums garnered a standing ovation.
Phillip Nichols, a keyboardist and arranger, received the Master Musician Lifetime Achievement Award from Lady Ira Lewis and the Guyana America Heritage Foundation.
Nichols, honored for turning sounds into soul, has performed with Guyanese bands, After Dark, Solo Productions, the National Youth Band, and the Ninja Band. He has also toured with the Mighty Sparrow, Main Ingredients, Mighty Kitchener, and New York’s Angel Caribbean Band. He has been performing for over forty years.
King Suflantis Edwards was also honored with the Master Musician Lifetime Achievement Award. The brilliant multiple-instrumentalist and captivating artist began his career at age sixteen and went on to play in the Guyana Police Force Band. He later performed with the Drifters, the Tamms, and at the World-Famous Apollo and Cotton Club. He also shared a stage with Billy Paul.
Two years ago, he performed at the historic Motown Records in Detroit and wowed the audience at the jazz session.
Twin brothers Richard and Malcolm Schultz, who began playing the guitar at age 17, entertained audiences for over twenty years in Guyana. They have played with the M&R Players, Music Makers, and others for over forty years and continue to play music as Lead guitarists and Bass Guitarists.
Colin Stewart, the original drummer of Cannon Balls String Band, founded by Cecil Haynes in the town of Linden, has been in the business for over 50 years. He has shared the stage with the Untouchables, Ninja Band, and other ensembles.
Trailblazing Musician Promoter, mother, and wife Lady Ira Lewis told Caribbean Life that, as the spouse of one of Guyana’s most celebrated musicians, she has had the privilege of collaborating and interacting with the country’s most talented artists for over four decades.
She said her contributions to Guyana’s music scene are undeniable, inspiring future generations of musicians. She added that she is deeply grateful to have the opportunity to honor “these Guyanese legends with a Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing their outstanding contributions to music over the past 50-plus years.”
“The dedication, passion, and commitment to their craft have shaped the music landscape and inspired generations of artists and fans alike. This award is a small token of appreciation for their tireless efforts, innovative spirit, and enduring legacy. I’m thrilled to celebrate their achievements and legacy with the community, acknowledging their impact on Guyanese culture and beyond.”
“The award ceremony celebrated their music, lives, and careers, featuring their performances, tributes, and heartfelt testimonials. It was a chance for us to come together and pay tribute to these icons, ensuring their legacy continues to inspire and uplift future generations,” said Lewis.
“I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who came to support and celebrate with us—special thanks to Doris, Colette, and Monica for their contributions to this special occasion. Your presence and support mean the world to us,” she expressed.
For three years, Dr. Esther Haynes-Tross, who hosted Sunday Morning Jazz with Dr. Esther T. on 104.3 Power FM in Linden, praised the ensemble, saying, “I enjoyed the Jazz Session.”
The musicians love what they do, so they were in sync and played harmoniously because of their love, commitment, and passion for making music. We must give Lady Ira credit for initiating the recognition and bestowing the awards.
The sounds of the instruments filled the venue with classics, including Mister Magic, A-Train, Mercy Mercy, and others, as young violin player Devon Webster of Guyanese heritage, vocalist Kathy Waters, veteran bassist Maxie Gouveia, and Flutist Tyrone Hobbs added to the memorable evening of jazz music.
