If you hear the shout "Kaiso! Kaiso!" the ageless acclamation heard after a great calypso delivery, it could well be that it belongs to guitarist Marva Newton's band.Wow! That's the name of her new aggregation that comprises a double second, bass, drums and percussion players.
Why Kaiso! Kaiso! you ask?
It's in tribute to calypso's fallen soldiers and their works that have been left gathering dust...the vintage songs.Now the girl with the film star name will give them new clothes.Marva is taking up the challenge to dress up vintage songs with her guitar licks and voice."I've noticed there is no woman singing vintage songs, so I'm taking up the challenge," she said.Already established as a calypso jazz guitarist, Marva, whose playing is winning her new friends, including me, is champing on the bit, ready to step out from the shadows.Coupled with her foray into the familiar territory of calypso singing and back-up, Marva is also getting set to open her Public Relations Consultancy.She expects to blend both chords (PR and vintage calypso singing) harmoniously. And don't doubt her.
Marva has travelled both roads experiencing the highs and lows; passionate about PR and calypso.In her guitar/calypso/ jazz journey, Marva has worked with the best-Patrick Gouveia, David Bereauz and friends, Roland Gordon, Ewart Serrant, Dave Marcellin (deceased) and other fine musicians.She has picked (no pun intended) her way through a maze of guitar knowledge, flavouring and colouring passages in her own jazzy inimitable way.Some say she makes the guitar smile.
What a compliment!However, Marva won't be drawn into superlative, there's still work to be done.Looking back at this shy St Joseph Convent girl, who started playing the piano influenced by her grandmother church organist Henrietta Wilson, it is a credit that guitar has won out.Marva's list of achievements are long and varied from free shows to corporate performances.Workshops, charities and valedictory functions have all benefited from her guitar skills.Her PR skills have been honed at Ministry of Local Government and sundry businesses. If you need her services, contact her at: mnewton@tstt.net.tt.
Now don't look at Marva Newton slightly, she's also an event planner.
Marva Newton's Performances:
• Sing the chorus.
• Ah Wanna Fall.
• David Bereaux and friends.
• Under the Trees (Hotel Normandie).
• Bother Valentino 2011 CD and book launch.
• Roti and Red Solo.
• UWI 60th celebrations (among others).
• March to Caroni. (Keithos)