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Groovin’ in the Spirit

Photo by Glenn TuckerSafiya Dyer (centre) of One in the Son presents Latosha Codrington and Moses Johnson each a cheque from the Pastor Ronald CE Smith Music Scholarship worth $1,200.

The late Pastor Ronnie Smith was known for keeping it real, his daughter is following through with his vision.The One in Son organisation founded by the late Ronnie Smith recently donated two music scholarships to two talented musicians: Moses Johnson and Latasha Codrington.The One in the Son hosted a musical dinner called “Groovin in the Spirit” which was in remembrance of the late Pastor and in turn raises funds for children with talent.Safiya Dyer (Pastor Ronnie’s daughter) said: “Harold Simons from Simons Music School (located at the old Berkeley) submitted to me two names of students enrolled with the school that showed great talent and promise in the areas of music but were having financial difficulties and could not afford lessons any more.”Young Observer went and met with the two musicians to find out more.Latasha is 29, she told us she has been singing since she can remember. She explained it ran in the family.Latasha said “I’ve always wanted to sing.”She was brought up in the Miracle Temple New Testament Church where she was in the choir and the praise team.She was just awarded “Bermuda Best”.Whitney Houston and Yolanda Adams are who has been her inspiration.Latasha was awarded a $1,200 scholarship which is paying for two terms of vocal lessons at Simons Music School.She went on to say “the lessons will enhance what I already know and make me more consistent”.Marcelle Clamens of Simons Music School said of Latasha “with natural talent you need to go to an instructor to enhance your natural gift”.She added: “The first thing I concentrate on is breathing. I can’t teach her anything she already has, she is naturally good, I’m going to help her enhance it.”The second scholarship was awarded to Moses Johnson. Moses is seven years old and attends Purvis Primary.He started learning the piano at the age of four. He is inspired by his father who also plays the piano. He told us “I heard the piano before I could walk.”Moses had been going to Mr Simons in the past, the scholarship will now enable him to take up lessons again.In addition to the piano Moses also plays the violin. He explained: “I like them both the same.”When he wakes up at home for school he wakes to classical music his mother told us.Moses has already performed at his church and in front of his assembly. Whilst in P1 at Purvis Moses had already grasped the level of work that P2 students were just getting to know.Mr Simons of Simons Music School said of Moses: “I hope he will really excel and take advantage of the scholarships and continue to inspire his peers.”