Pan Elders Celebrates its Tenth Anniversary

Trinidad and Tobago - Pan Elders was conceptualized in 1999 during an evening lime at Gem’s Recreation Club –now the popular Red Step Bar- on Carib Street, San Fernando. Carib Street –dubbed the Gaza Strip by a well known southern pan personality- has arguably, the most steelband per sq. kilometer anywhere on the planet.

Amongst the band’s godfathers, emptying 80% proof receptacles, that fateful day were ex southern based band members such as Jones Andrews, Godfrey Camps, Anthony Farrell, Cyril Smith, Christopher Branker, Mervyn Cruickshank, Ronnie Williams and Gunns amongst others.

The band acquired their formative instruments from serious fund raising and the benevolence of well wishers. Mr. Ronnie Williams who along with Hollis Smith guided the band to their many successes informed that the band is indebted to Fascinators Steel Orchestra of Tunapuna. The east based band assisted them with instruments and directed them to tuner Junior ‘Blueboy’ Peters and arranger Eustace Benjamin.

Elton J.W. Bain, acting chairman Pan Trinbago South/Central Region, said that the region is extremely proud of the progressive outfit that is Pan Elders. He further revealed that the band has achieved so much in its brief existence. Some of its achievements include champion status in the Small Band Conventional Category in 2008, ruling the roost at Marabella Republic Competitions and generally performing at the highest levels with placings in the upper end positions under the baton of arranger Alvin Gittens. The band is professionally managed and has invested in its own 25- seater coach and three ton truck. We wish Pan Elders regularization of its present tenure and all the best in its future endeavours. Keep the South/Central Region flag flying.

From Media and Communications - Pan Trinbago