Lemuel McPherson Christian
Lemuel McPherson Christian (1913–2000) was the composer of the music for Dominica’s national anthem, “Isle of Beauty, Isle of Splendour.” Born in Saint Kitts, he was brought to Dominica as an infant, growing up in Delices, where his father was a teacher. Christian’s early career saw him serve as a police officer in the Leeward Islands Police Force in Antigua and Dominica. He later transitioned into various roles in the Agricultural Department and worked in administrative positions at Carib Cinema and Astaphan’s Shopping Centre.
Founding the Christian Musical Class
In 1944, Christian founded Dominica’s first music school, the Christian Musical Class, which was groundbreaking for music education on the island. He offered music lessons alongside typing classes, providing vital training to many local musicians when formal music education was scarce. Christian, a skilled guitarist, was remarkably versatile and mastered 25 instruments. He played an influential role in shaping Dominica’s musical landscape and was one of the founding members of the Music Lovers Government Band.
Contributions to Dominica Music
In addition to composing the national anthem, Christian was commissioned in 1963 to write the Dominica Grammar School song “The Greatest of All Builders.” Two years later, in 1965, he composed the music for Dominica’s national song, which was eventually adopted as the national anthem. Christian’s dedication to music was also reflected in his family, notably through the Christian Family Orchestra, which he formed with his siblings in the 1930s. This family orchestra became essential to Dominica’s cultural heritage, showcasing their collective musical talents and influence.
His passion for music carried through to his children, with two of his daughters, Peganni and Palestrina, becoming professional musicians in the UK. His son, Purcell Christian, continues teaching music in Dominica and plays in the Music Lovers Government Band, another key musical institution Christian helped establish. Additionally, his niece, Pearle Christian, leads the music section of the Division of Culture and is the leader of the Sixth Form Sisserou Singers, continuing the family’s deep legacy in Dominican music and culture.
This interconnected legacy of the Christian Family Orchestra, national contributions, and music education highlights Lemuel Christian’s profound influence on the island’s musical identity.
Honors and Recognition
Throughout his life, Lemuel McPherson Christian was recognized for his invaluable contributions to Dominica’s music and culture. He was awarded the MBE (Member of the British Empire) in the 1960s, the Sisserou Award of Honour in the 1970s, and the Golden Drum Award in 1994. These honours, alongside numerous other awards from various organizations, cement his legacy as a cornerstone of Dominica’s cultural heritage.