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Very few Dominicans who grew up in the 1970s and ’80s can forget the uplifting melody of “I Am the Vine” or the distinctive voice of its creator, Ignatius Alexander. This beloved song continues to resonate in Roman Catholic church services across the island and has been performed and recorded by numerous choirs and soloists.<\/p>\n
“I Am the Vine, You Are the Branches,” along with other cherished compositions such as “Blessed Are You, Lord of All” and “Come to the Table of The Lord My Friends,” forms a significant part of the rich musical legacy left by Ignatius. Tragically, he passed away on January 21, 2025, in Arizona, USA, following a brief illness.<\/p>\n
Born on April 9, 1944, in Colihaut, Ignatius\u2014affectionately known as “Iggie”\u2014was a gifted singer, songwriter, guitarist, and concert performer. His educational journey began at Saint Mary\u2019s Academy in Roseau, where he not only studied but later taught. He also imparted his knowledge at a school in Antigua and was a dedicated Christian Brother of the Roman Catholic Church. His love for Saint Mary\u2019s Academy inspired him to organize a benefit concert in 1984 to raise funds for the construction of the Saint Mary\u2019s Primary School.<\/p>\n
Ignatius pursued higher education at Iona College in New Rochelle, New York, and Fordham University in New York City. His academic endeavors paved the way for a fulfilling career as a foreign language teacher, including Latin, and an international educational tour guide. Remarkably, he was fluent in five languages in addition to English.<\/p>\n
During his college years, Ignatius joined forces with four other talented Roman Catholic youths to form a musical group called “The 10:15,” named after the train departure time from their base in the Bronx to New Rochelle. The group released three albums before disbanding: *The 10:15* (1970), *Making Tracks* (1972), and *Songs of the Father* (1974). Their most notable hits included “I Am the Vine,” featured on their debut album, and “Blessed Are You,” from *Making Tracks*.<\/p>\n
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After the group’s dissolution, Ignatius embarked on a successful solo career, performing at concerts and various events, including weddings and funerals. His versatility allowed him to sing in multiple languages, and he occasionally collaborated in a two-member group called Burgundy. Later, he teamed up with his nephew, the former Dominica Junior, Roadmarch, Independence, and Calypso King, King Shakey, to form the duo Ed Schaeker & Ignatius. Together, they released two albums\u2014*Optimistic Wanderers* (1991) and *To Life* (1993). Their final performance together took place in St. Paul, Minnesota, in September 2009.<\/p>\n Ignatius eventually settled in Minneapolis, Minnesota, before moving to Goodyear, Arizona, where he passed away. He is survived by his wife, Yvonne; his children and grandchildren; siblings, including former Dominica Roadmarch and Calypso King, De Rabbit; various nephews and nieces; and a wide circle of family, friends, and fans.<\/p>\n His melodious voice, the enchanting tunes from his 12-string acoustic guitar, and his banjo will be deeply missed.<\/p>\n May Iggie rest in peace, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to inspire generations to come.<\/p>\n You can listen below to the first album and one song on the second album that Ignatius did with “10:15”.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/dominicanewsonline.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Ignatius-3-642x871.jpeg\")