Ace Musician and Steelband Arranger Eddie Quarless Remembered Big-time in Brooklyn

The late Edison “Eddie” Quarless

Brooklyn, New York, USA - It was an A-plus list of men and women who have shaped the Caribbean musical landscape over the last half-century, bolstered by the great players, major management figures, and fans of the New York steelband music community - all in attendance to pay tribute to composer, musician, performing artist and steelband arranger Edison “Eddie” Quarless. Eddie Quarless passed away earlier in the month - September 1, 2014.

Co-organizer of the Quarless send-off Metro's Tony Joseph opens the event

Robert Quarless, brother of Eddie Quarless

Record producer Rawlston Charles (l), with keyboardist Frankie McIntosh

The celebration was held under the auspices of "JahPan" in conjunction with Metro Steel Orchestra at the latter's facility on Empire Boulevard in Brooklyn, New York. Eddie Quarless served as musical director of JahPan Caribbean Steel Band. Metro's manager Tony Joseph opened the event with a short speech remembering his musical encounter with Quarless who, he said, thought him how to read music and more. Eddie Quarless had also been a past arranger of Metro.

Quarless’ brother Robert, record producer Rawlston Charles, guitarist George Victory, keyboardist Frankie McIntosh, guitarist Freddy Harris, III with dad Freddy Harris, II and others - along with a host of Caribbean session musicians, were present.

Also on hand in tribute, and many having glowing memories and experiences connected with Quarless, were NY steelpan managers past and present - in the persons of Moods, Pan Rebels, Metro, D'Radoes, Despers USA, Dem Stars, NY Pan Stars, CASYM, Steel Xplosion, Pantonic, Steel Sensation, CYP, Marsicans, Umoja, Sesame Flyers, Silhouettes, NY Nutones, and more. And also in the house - representative from a host of bands from Trinidad and Tobago were faces from the likes of Trinidad All Stars, North Stars, Desperadoes, Harmonites, Phase II, amid more than we can remember.

Session musicians / former colleagues of Eddie Quarless; ace musician Frankie McIntosh is second from right

Jammin’ at Eddie Quarless’ send-off

"This music is definitely Quarless, all this music here, is Eddie himself," proclaimed one female attendee, regarding the bands and selections played as they took the spotlight during the evening. That Mr. Quarless touched many live was abundantly clear by the large and diverse crowd in attendance.

Paying musical tribute on stage to the late Eddie Quarless; George Victory is center, on guitar