Michael Sutherland Named Musical Director of National Chorale of Jamaica

The National Chorale of Jamaica (NCOJ) has entered a new phase of leadership under Michael Sutherland, a noted bass-baritone soloist, teacher, and choral conductor. For more than 53 years, the ensemble has stood among Jamaica’s most admired and long-standing choral groups.

Sutherland replaces Winston Ewart, a founding member of the NCOJ and its former musical director. Ewart has led performances of major repertoire including Handel’s The Messiah, Samuel Coleridge-Taylor’s Hiawatha’s Wedding Feast, Bach’s The Christmas Cantata, and Mendelssohn’s Elijah. He said that over the past two years he had recognised Sutherland’s readiness to succeed him and was glad “to hand over the baton to Michael, wishing him many successful years as the new director”. The change took effect on March 1.

Across a career spanning more than 30 years, Sutherland has paired classroom leadership with work as a choral conductor, vocal coach, and performer. Colleagues and students often find it hard to separate his devotion to music from his commitment to education. In both settings, he has focused on developing singers at every level and strengthening choral music across Jamaica.

He has taught at Crescent Primary School in Spanish Town, St Catherine; Westwood High School in Trelawny; The Queen’s School in St Andrew; and now serves as principal of Central Branch All-Age School in Kingston. Many pupils shaped by his guidance have gone on to earn recognition in choral and wider musical performance.

Sutherland’s early musical development was guided by respected teachers, among them acclaimed soprano Marie McMarrow. He went on to study voice at the Stetson University School of Music in Florida.

On taking up the post, Sutherland spoke about what the role means to him: “Stepping into the role of musical director of the National Chorale of Jamaica is both a profound honour and a humbling responsibility. I want first to acknowledge Winston Ewart, whose years of dedicated stewardship laid the foundation upon which we now build. His passion for choral excellence, his nurturing of young voices, and his unwavering commitment to preserving Jamaica’s rich choral tradition have left an indelible mark on this organisation, and on me personally.”

He also outlined his aims for the group: “My vision is simple yet ambitious. I wish to continue elevating the standard of choral artistry in Jamaica while opening doors for the next generation of singers.”

Sutherland added: “The National Chorale of Jamaica has long been a beacon of artistic excellence and cultural expression. I look forward to working with our talented members, supporters, and partners as we continue to celebrate our heritage while embracing new opportunities for growth and innovation.”

His ties to the NCOJ stretch back many years as a singer in large-scale and smaller productions. Standout roles have included Crown in Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess and “Jesus” in Dubois’ Seven Last Words.

Chairman Christopher Samuda, in welcoming the appointment, said Sutherland brings to the National Chorale “both artistic integrity and a rich musical vision that will resonate across generations while celebrating the enduring excellence of classical music”.

A protégé of the late Dr Olive Lewin, Sutherland continues to invest in young vocal talent. He often tells aspiring singers: “Practise until you cannot get it wrong.”

He offered further advice to those starting out: “Excellence is not an accident; it is the result of discipline, practice, and a willingness to be taught. The chorale will always be a place where that kind of dedication is nurtured and celebrated. Together, I believe we can write an exciting new chapter for choral music in Jamaica.”