New  York - The night belonged to the Caribbean American Sports and Cultural Youth Movement (CASYM) Steel Orchestra, the parents, the players and the steelpan instrument. CASYM held its annual "Classical Caribbean Christmas" at the world famous Brooklyn Museum. The capacity crowd was treated to a very special show. For two hours the audience witnessed an exceptional and entertaining show that showcased the talent, and teaching ability of the members of CASYM.

CASYM showed again why it is one of the most successful youth organizations in the country. For over twenty years the multifaceted youth-oriented organization demonstrated the power of pan to motivate, provide options, provide exposure, discipline, access to skills, education, and high achievement through culture and education. Moreover, ninety percent of their program participants graduate from college with degrees. Indeed, CASYM proudly boasts about its members who stared as youths in the group and now have college and advanced degrees.

CASYM displayed its full educational and performance arsenal:  Class 1, Class 2, dancers, poetry, drama, public school and stage side.  The young people displayed an abundance of skill, confidence and preparation. Their knowledge of culture and intellectual savvy was evident throughout the night. The performers covered a wide age group; in at least one case, a budding pan musician was so tiny that he/she needed to stand on a milk crate to reach the steelpans!

Mr. William Jones, director of CASYM was honored at the event for his vision and ability to successfully put into action a plan and programs that have provided training and opportunities to young people.

CASYM's Tichard Chapman, director of music at Meyer Levin led two of his groups'  performances at the show. The 'graduates eleven' began with a reggae medley which featured the supremely popular Footprints, a huge smash for the past summer in New York.

The multi-talented Michelle Williams, a long-time fixture with CASYM, led and directed the CASYM's Class 1, Class 2 and dancers. And CASYM's stage side is led by their captain Travis Roberts.  CASYM's stage side has established itself as one of the most popular performing music groups in North America.

Charged with the task of holding it together as MCs later on during the presentation, were Santa and Mrs. Claus, who deserve special mention for their professional, tasteful and 'in character' dramatizations and on-point satirical content.

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CASYM may be contacted at 1 (718) 735-4932 or www.CASYM.com