Musician John Seymour, who has worked with singer-songwriter Ne-Yo and late gospel star Bishop Rance Allen, has been awarded a Bermuda Arts Council (BAC) grant.

Mr Seymour, 27, is a pianist and singer as well as a prolific musical producer and composer. He is currently the Minister of Music for the First Church of God.

Mr Seymour will use the $3,000 grant to release a debut album of original music.

Ernest Peets, the Minister of Youth, Culture and Sports, said: “John is an incredibly talented musician and we’re pleased to be able to support his musical aspirations in this way.

“Recently, I shared that our Ministry will continue to support those popular and critical cultural and artistic programmes, events and initiatives that the public have come to expect from us.”

BAC Chair Jennifer Phillips added: “Bermuda Arts Council is pleased to support Bermudian John Seymour in releasing his debut album of original music. As songwriter, singer, musician and producer on this project, John has demonstrated passion, dedication and diverse creative talents.”

Mr. Seymour concluded, “I want to thank The Bermuda Arts Council for the grant they have blessed me with. This grant has allowed me to complete and finish my first musical album project. I am eternally grateful to the Arts Council for their encouragement and belief in my gifts, talents and dreams. I will do everything I can to move the culture of Bermuda's music forward.”