The Bahamas Accordion Association (BAA) is committed to saving the endangered accordion. BAA is a non-profit organization. BAA provides the legal structure needed to collect, funds for The Cat Island Accordion & French Camp or other future projects it may support. BAA is administered by a group of highly qualified professionals committed to this task.

THE VISION Blow on the embers of a dying tradition, to spark new interest in musical traditions that sustain the spirit. Sow those seeds in the souls of healthy, musically inclined youth. Provide free high-quality instruction. Nurture and sustain their learning until they can master the instrument.

We believe that the self-destructiveness that now prevails within our communities is largely due to the loss of our music and heritage. Music was how our ancestors survived the horrors of slavery. Today, the music that is played divides rather than assembles the generations.

Traditional Rake ‘n Scrape or Goombay music, as it was once called on the contrary, unites and fosters feelings of warmth, well-being, and a sense of belonging to the same music culture. The Quadrille dances were wholesome and great fun for the entire family as can be attested in countries where such traditions still thrive.

Passing on the legacy of playing the accordion is the only way to ensure that it is preserved for generations to come.

Diana Hamilton

President & Executive Director