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November  2008


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The most recent CD from Ralph MacDonald is “Mixty Motions.”  It’s the masterful Ralph MacDonald surrounded by fantastic musicians as well as two new performances by the great duo, Ashford and Simpson.  As with previous Ralph MacDonald releases, steelpan instruments played by Robert Greenidge maintain a prominent role in defining the attitude of the CD. Click to hear sample


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Web Posted - Sunday November 30, 2008
When Steel Talks

And The Youths Shall Lead… National Youth Pan Orchestra Triumphs
Yes We “KHAN!!”

Moods of Pan 2008
 

Antigua & Barbuda, W.I. - The twin-island country’s National Youth Pan Orchestra, fielding the youngest group of musicians in Moods of Pan’s 2008 25-A-Side competition, stunned and trounced their more seasoned and sometimes older peers in the five other orchestras. Though some of the young winners also did double duty with the other orchestras (they were part of the youth arms of those more established bands in the country), it was the incarnation featuring them as the best of the twin-island’s youthful steelpan musicians, that pulled it off for what was the inaugural contest of its kind in the tenth annual Moods of Pan festival, proudly organized by Gemonites Steel Orchestra, who also took part in the competition.
click for more


Web Posted - Saturday November 29, 2008
When Steel Talks

Antiguan Pan Festival
the Best in the Caribbean Region?  No doubt!!

Moods of Pan 2008
 

Antigua & Barbuda, W.I. - When Steel Talks has traveled south to the island of Antigua with much anticipation and expectation for this year’s version of the annual three-day steelpan music festival - Moods of Pan.  2008 represents the 10th year for the event which has grown considerably in stature and importance to the Caribbean region.  Moods of Pan has been innovative and cutting edge, all the while maintaining a very high performance caliber.
click for more


Web Posted - Saturday November 29, 2008
Trinidad Newsday

Renegades leads off Pan XI Final

Trinidad, W.I. - Minor Category (Quartet & Ensemble) winners bp Renegades will lead off Sunday’s National Steelband Music Festival — Pan Is Beautiful XI — at the Jean Pierre Complex, Wrightson Road, Port of Spain.  Showtime is 6 pm.

The Charlotte Street steelband is intent on adding the NSMF Orchestra category title to its cache.

Renegades under the baton of Desmond Waithe will perform “Rienzi Overture” composed by Richard Wagner. All participants will perform the test piece Slinger Francisco’s “Document Pan” and a tune of choice.
click for more


Web Posted -Wednesday  November 26, 2008
When Steel Talks

The Great One Remembered: Master Arranger Clive Bradley

The date is November 26, 2005.  A day that will be etched in the annals of steelpan music history. There are momentous moments in history when everyone remembers exactly where they were when they learned of this event.  Such is the case for a generation of steelpan music lovers and players as they remember the moment when they were told that legendary Master arranger Clive Bradley had passed.  Revered and admired all over the world, Clive Bradley was simply the best steelpan music arranger to ever walk the planet.

From Panonthenet.com to The New York Times the genius of Clive Bradley was saluted and recognized.

When Steel Talks salutes the life and genius of Clive Bradley through music, art, video, song, poetry and the written word by those who new him and whose lives continue to be impacted by his legacy.

click for more  - Clive Bradley - The Man, The Music and The Legend

Web Posted - Monday November 24, 2008
When Steel Talks

Single Pan Ensemble Results – Pan Is Beautiful XI

Trinidad, W.I.  - SWMCOL Codrington Pan Family added three more national titles to their list of achievements when the emerged winners at the National Steelband Music Festival – Pan Is Beautiful XI – Minor (Single Pan Band) categories.

Playing their own composition “From Kumasi to la Trinidad – Adapted for Single Pans” and test piece ”Rose”, Pan Family amassed 553 points copping “Best Test Piece”, “Best Tune of Choice” and Single Pan Band winner at last Friday’s pan festival at La Joya Complex, St. Joseph.

The East Dry River based family band led by Cary Codrington was one of nine (9) participants that faced the adjudicators in a keenly- contested event of musical skills. Taking home the “Best Dressed” title was Marsicans. (See full list of winners)

click for more

Web Posted - Saturday  November 22, 2008
When Steel Talks

Pan Radio is Up and Running

Hello to our PanRadio listeners - Great news!  PanRadio is back up and running!  Our web site hosting company has since resolved their technical issues, and now the Panonthenet multimedia content that was affected, including interviews and similar material, is once again accessible.

click link to hear: http://www.panonthenet.com/radio/index96.htm

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Web Posted - Saturday November 22, 2008
Trinidad Newsday

A ‘Wild and Wonderful’ debut
 

Trinidad, W.I.  - Olatunji Yearwood’s rendition of the pan song titled “Wild and Wonderful”, a new track for Panorama 2009, won rave reviews at a special edition of Silver Stars Steel Orchestra’s Parang and Steel Concert series on November 2.

Delivering his trademark energetic performance at the concert, staged to coincide with the band’s 60th anniversary, the young entertainer heightened the cultural showcase.
click for more


Web Posted - Saturday November 22, 2008
When Steel Talks

bp Renegades Steel Orchestra sweeps the field
 

Trinidad, W.I.  - BP Renegades Steel Orchestra swept the field on the opening night of the National Steelband Music Festival – Pan Is Beautiful XI - held at the La Joya complex St Joseph, Trinidad, on Thursday 20th November 2008, marking a successful return to the Festival scene for the band after a 20-year absence. Micahi Felician playing Rossini’s ‘Barber of Seville’ topped the soloist category while Levi Ettienne and Cleveland King did the same in the duets category playing ‘Beethoven’s ‘Symphony No.1 IV’. 

Later Kain Cox, Ishmael Wharton, Aaron Franklin and Kayesha Ollivierre brought down the house in the quartet category with a splendid performance of Schubert’s ‘Scherzo’ that saw them copping the top spot for a clean sweep by the players of BP Renegades, most of whom were not even born when the band last appeared in the Steelband Music Festival in 1988.

click for more

Web Posted - Friday November 21, 2008
Antigua Sun

Carnival Office shares sympathy at ‘Jughead’s’ passing


Antigua & Barbuda, W.I.
- The ministry under which the Carnival celebrations fall has expressed its condolences with the family of the late Leroy ‘Jughead’ Gordon, who died in Antigua last week.

“On behalf of Minister Harold Lovell, the Ministry Of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Culture and Environment, the staff within the National Festivals Office, in collaboration with the Carnival Development Committee, would like through this medium to extend its deepest sympathy to the family of Leroy ‘Jughead’ Gordon on his passing,” a statement said.

Condacy Browne, the longest serving member of staff in the Carnival Office, stated that Gordon was truly a cultural icon.
click for more


Web Posted - Thursday November 20, 2008
When Steel Talks

Silver Stars Steel Orchestra’s Parang and Steel Concert

Trinidad, W.I. -  The season premier of Parang and Steel staged by former Pan In the 21st Century victor Silver Stars Steel Orchestra on November 15, had all the nuances for a great production.

Scores of music lovers turned out at the band’s Tragarete Road, Newtown, Port-of-Spain, headquarters for another night of fine musical performances from the cast which included parang group Fuego Caribeno, Baron (Timothy Watkins) and host Silver Stars.

The 19th annual edition of Parang and Steel—dubbed the biggest steelband event held this time of year— continues every Saturday until December 13, at Silver Star’s headquarters.

click for more

Web Posted - Tuesday November 18, 2008
Trinidad Express

Special edition of Silver Stars Steel Orchestra’s
Parang and Steel Concert

 

Trinidad, W.I. -  Olatunji Yearwood’s rendering of the pan song titled Wild and Wonderful for Panorama 2009 won rave reviews at a special edition of Silver Stars Steel Orchestra’s Parang and Steel Concert series on November 2.

Delivering his trademark energetic performance at the concert, staged to coincide with the band’s 60th anniversary, observed between November 1-8, the young entertainer heightened the cultural showcase.

Appearing on a playbill that included parang group Los Dnamicos, former Calypso Monarch Denyse Plummer and host Silver Stars, Yearwood earned kudos for his appeal and vibrant performing style before a mature audience.  However, he almost missed out on the opportunity to perform the selection composed by Alvin Daniell and Edwin Pouchet.
click for more


Web Posted - Tuesday November 18, 2008
Trinidad Express

Bandleaders happy
Panorama back at QPS
 

Trinidad, W.I. - Bandleaders are welcoming the news that the Panorama finals are to be held at the Queen's Park Savannah in Port of Spain next year, after two years of journeying to Skinner Park in San Fernando for the competition.

 

The bandleaders said the trip to San Fernando over the past two years had been a very costly affair as they had to dig deep into their pockets to foot the cost of transport and accommodation for their pan players. News that the competition was to return to the Savannah was therefore music to their ears.

 

And some of the southern steelband representatives are saying that, while they enjoyed hosting the competition over the past two years, they had no problem returning to the Savannah, "the birthplace of pan".

 

Pan Trinbago president Patrick Arnold announced last Wednesday that the Panorama finals were to return to the Savannah.

click for more\

Web Posted - Tuesday November 18, 2008
Campbelltown News

Mac Fields pan band best in southern hemisphere
 

Australia - Kids banging on steel pans may bring on a headache for some, but when they've got a bit of rhythm and had a whole lot of practice, it can be music to your ears.

Students at Macquarie Fields Public School recently won the Panorama steel band competition making them one of the best school-aged pan bands in the southern hemisphere.

The school band, comprising children from kindergarten to year 6, out-banged six other schools at the competition, held at Sutherland's Bangor Primary School late last month.

Assistant principal Karen Miller, who also performs and competes as part of the band, said she cried when they won.

click for more

Web Posted - Tuesday November 18, 2008
When Steel Talks

Trinival: Carnival of the Gods
 

Trinival: Carnival of the Gods is an analytical look at the culture of Carnival as it is celebrated in Trinidad and Tobago, Brazil, New Orleans, Canada, England, Spain, Switzerland and other Carnival cities. Many new topics are introduced and discussed in this fascinating book including the sexuality and sensuality in Carnival along with the music, costume and political dynamics. The East Indian influence and contribution to Trinidad Carnival along with a brief history of Chutney music concludes a very stimulating, informative, unique book.
click for more


Web Posted - Tuesday November 18, 2008
When Steel Talks

Monster Lineup Set
for Antigua & Barbuda’s
Tenth Annual Moods of Pan
 

Antigua & Barbuda, W.I. - Simply the finest annual steelpan music concert event in the Caribbean, Moods of Pan is known for it's originality, quality and being first with steelpan music innovations that everyone else unashamedly emulates. Antigua's Tenth Annual Moods of Pan concert series will begin on Friday, November 28th in St. John’s, the capital of the twin-island nation.

Over the three-night period Friday through Sunday, fabulous steelband entertainment will include the “Cool & Smooth 25-a-Side steelband competition,” the hugely popular and internationally famous “Five Alive” series originated by Moods of Pan hosts Gemonites Steel Orchestra; David Rudder, and "Another Side of Pan" with performances from the likes of Len "Boogsie" Sharpe, Skiffle Bunch, Ralph MacDonald and Robert Greenidge.
click for more


Web Posted - Tuesday November 18, 2008
When Steel Talks

Southern Marines Steelband Foundation’s Eighth Annual
‘Talent Expression’ heads
to Grand Final
 

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - The eighth edition of the Talent Expression competition, organised by the Southern Marines Steelband Foundation is heading for a wonderful climax at the Grand Final on Saturday 22nd November 2008 beginning at 8:00 pm at the Southern Marines Pan Palais, Southern Main Road, Marabella in Trinidad.

Thirteen contestants moved forward from a field of twenty-four in the semi final round held on Saturday 8th November.
click for more


Web Posted - Monday November 17, 2008
Whiznews.com

 Steel Drum Concert at Secrest

Ohio, USA. - Over one-thousand 4th grade students throughout Muskingum County spent time at the Secrest Auditorium on Monday morning.

They were there to enjoy the sounds of The University of Akron Steel Drum Band. The Zanesville Concert Association sponsors the event. "Every year for the last 20-years the Zanesville Concert Association has brought some kind of program called the Children's Concert. It for 4th graders from every school in Muskingum County" said Paul Shannon, a member of the Concert Association.
click for more


Web Posted - Monday November 17, 2008
Antigua Sun

PM Spencer expresses sadness
at ‘Jughead’s’ passing
 

Antigua & Barbuda, W.I. - Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer has expressed his sympathy to the family of the late Leroy “Jughead” Gordon who died in Antigua last Thursday.

In expressing his condolences, Prime Minister Spencer called Gordon a true patriot of Antigua and Barbuda who was always passionate about culture and its development in our nation.

“Not only was ‘Jughead’ a founder of the Harmonites Steel Orchestra but he always remained deeply connected to the advancement of pan particularly among the youths of this nation,” PM Spencer stated.

“His active involvement in mas’, theatre and the church all highlight the life of selfless service that he lead,” the prime minister, who was a leading member of teel Orchestra, stated.
click for more


Web Posted - Sunday November 16, 2008
Trinidad Newsday

Toronto honours for Earl La Pierre
 

Trinidad, W.I. - On Saturday September 27, Michael Lashley, Trinidad and Tobago’s Consul General in Toronto, presented awards at the second annual presentation of the Consul General’s Diaspora Award for Excellence, to two TT nationals, Earl La Pierre Sr and Eleanor Wiltshire Rodney of the Greater Toronto Area for their remarkable contributions to community development through education and culture.

The Naparima Alumni Association of Canada’s president Merle Ramdial, received a group award on behalf of the NAAC, which raised nearly $100,000 in the past three decades to support the Canadian Presbyterian Mission-established educational institutions in Trinidad and Tobago.

Steelpan virtuoso La Pierre, formerly of Cotton Hill, St Clair, Port-of-Spain, received the trophy “For Excellence in Culture and Community Development Through the Promotion of the Steelpan” at the charity dinner gala titled “Cutting Style: A Taste of Trinidad and Tobago in Fashion and Textiles” in the Westin Harbour Castle in Toronto.
click for more


Web Posted - Sunday November 16, 2008
When Steel Talks

Antigua & Barbuda
Steelpan Icon,
Leroy “Jughead” Gordon,
Passes Away at 61
 

Antigua & Barbuda, W.I. - The steelband fraternity and other community members of this twin-island nation will greatly miss one it’s well-known steelband cultural icons, Leroy “Jughead” Gordon who passed away last Thursday, November 13, after ailing for some time.

 

Gordon, who was a founding member of the Harmonites International Steel Orchestra reportedly succumbed to heart failure linked to cancer complications at the Winter's Medical Clinic in Antigua at 11.20 a.m. Gordon was still actively involved with Harmonites, based in St. John’s, the nation’s capital.
click for more


Web Posted - Sunday November 16, 2008
Kaieteur News

Roy Geddes is keeping the steelpan art form alive
 

Georgetown, Guyana - An array of beautiful tropical trees and flower plants line the lush walkway accentuated by steelpan souvenirs and other assortments that send the distinct message of ‘a vivid steelpan haven’. The haven is secluded in a quiet and serene location at 190 Roxanne Burnham Gardens, South Ruimveldt, Georgetown.

Many may find it hard to believe, but this eye-catching spectacle is actually the walkway that leads to the famous Roy Geddes Steelpan Museum, which has been receiving rave reviews from locals and from the Pan Podium, the official magazine of the British Association of Steelbands.

The steelpan museum houses a vivid and colourful pictorial display of Roy’s success, even as it displays an intriguing showcase of steelpans — from the raw material to the finished products. There is also an abundance of reading materials, while a line-up of trophies, medals and souvenirs speak positive vibes of his successes and contributions to the music discipline in Guyana and abroad.
click for more


Web Posted - Saturday November 15, 2008
Trinidad Newsday

Dr Stalin honoured
by Sagicor Exodus
 

Trinidad, W.I. - In recognition of the award of the Doctor of Letters degree to Leroy Calliste by the University of the West Indies, a celebration concert produced by Sagicor Exodus took place last Saturday at their Panyard in St Augustine.

Billed as Dr Stalin, The Tribute Concert, the free event brought together some of Stalin’s closest friends including Explainer, Gypsy, Chris Garcia and Brian London all backed by Black Stalin’s lifelong friend Roy Cape and the Kaiso All Stars; featuring Blaxx, Trini Jacobs and Olatongi. Gypsy was especially well received by the large turnout of calypso lovers at the Exodus panyard that spilled on to the Eastern Main Road.

When it was his turn, the man of the moment, Black Stalin did not disappoint. He went from classic to classic and the fans just lapped it up.
click for more


Web Posted - Friday November 14, 2008
Antigua Sun

Cultural icon Leroy ‘Jughead’ Gordon dies
 

Antigua & Barbuda, W.I. - Antigua and Barbuda has lost yet another treasured son of the soil within the stretch of less than one week.

Many fell into deep grief and shock yesterday as news of Leroy "Jughead" Gordon’s passing circulated across the island. He died at the age of 61.

Gordon, who was described as one the country’s most outstanding cultural icons passed away at Winter’s Clinic yesterday morning.

He was taken to the clinic earlier that morning after complaining of feeling unwell. Gordon reportedly died of a heart failure, which was due to complications of prostate cancer and diabetes.
click for more


Web Posted - Thursday November 13, 2008
When Steel Talks

Participants in all categories in the National Steelband Music Festival:
Pan Is Beautiful XI

Order of Appearance


Trinidad, W.I.
- Participants in all categories of the National Steelband Music Festival – Pan Is Beautiful XI - drew for playing positions earlier in the day.  The drawing was held during the morning period at NCC-TV (National Carnival Commission Television).

 

Produced by Pan Trinbago Inc. TC, Pan is Beautiful XI will be held in phases starting with the Minor Categories at the Eric Williams Auditorium, La Joya Complex, St. Joseph, and culminating with the Orchestra Class at the Jean Pierre Complex, Port-of-Spain, Trinidad.

Showtime is 6 p.m. Tickets are available at Pan Trinbago Head Office, Park Street and also at Cleve’s One Stop Music Shop, Frederick Street - both in  Port-of-Spain, Trinidad.

The National Steelband Music Festival is a biennial event giving panists an opportunity to display the versatility of the steelpan.
click for full order of appearance


Web Posted - Thursday November 13, 2008
Trinidad Newsday

Work to start on QPS for Panorama

Trinidad, W.I. -  Work on infrastructure is expected to begin soon at the Queen’s Park Savannah (QPS) in time for next year’s Panorama Finals.

Although there is no word on when work starts, Pan Trinbago president Patrick Arnold said the western end of the Savannah will be expanded to accommodate the finals.

“We’ve had a lot of meetings and I’m confident that things will be in place in due time. For now we know that the western end of the Savannah will be expanded to be more accommodative,” Arnold said.

Meanwhile, chairman of the National Carnival Committee (NCC), Howard Chin Lee, said he had no comment to make on the cost to get the venue in shape. He said a figure will be made available at a later date.
click for more


Web Posted - Wednesday November 12, 2008
Gulfnews.com

Steel band brings the Caribbean
to Abu Dhabi
 

Abu Dhabi, UAE -  The West Indies had a pleasant surprise at the Zayed Cricket Stadium when they were greeted by Pepe Francis and his four-member steel band.

Making their debut at this desert venue, the West Indies were expecting the crowd to be rooting for Pakistani due to the large expatriate population in the UAE.

But with the presenting sponsors etisalat having flown in the Ebony Steel Band, it was sweet music for the calypso kings.

"We actually have a band of over 40 but only five of us are here," said band leader Pepe.
click for more


Web Posted - Wednesday November 12, 2008
Trinidad Newsday

$18M for Panorama,
finals return to PoS
 

Trinidad, W.I. -  Government has approved $18.5 million for Panorama 2009, and once again the winning large conventional steelband will play for a $1 million prize.

Steelband finalists can also look forward to battling for the lucrative prize at the Queen’s Park Savannah, Port-of-Spain.

Pan Trinbago president Patrick Arnold announced the allocation for Panorama, a major event in the Carnival calendar, and the return of the finals to Port-of-Spain during a news conference at the organisation’s head office, Victoria Suite, Port-of-Spain, yesterday.

Eleven million dollars, out of the allocation, will cover the prizes including the $1 million that will go to the top large steelband. Prizes are also to be set for the competitions for the medium conventional bands, small bands, single pan bands and pan-round-the-neck bands. The remaining $7.5 million will be used to offset the costs to stage the competitions.
click for more


Web Posted - Tuesday November 11, 2008
Cayman Net News

Steel Band Competitors Named
 

Grand Cayman, CI - Four local steel bands will participate in this year’s Pirates Week Steel band Competition scheduled for Thursday, 13 November on Cardinall Avenue in George Town.


The competing bands are Panoramers, St Ignatius, Pandemix and Pandemonium.


The competition will form part of the George Town District Day event on Cardinall Avenue and Harbour Drive. First and second places in the musical contest will be $500 and $200 respectively.

Normally, the steel bands are judged on their performance during the Float Parade, but this year they will also be heard in this separate competition with each band being required to play a song of its choice. Judges will be Stacey Clarke, Dr Victor Look Loy, and Gerry Mendez.
click for more


Web Posted - Monday November 10, 2008
When Steel Talks

Is Antiguan Pan
Ready to Rebound?
 

Antigua, W.I. - Hard on the heels of the Trinidadian progenitors, Antigua leapt onto the steel band music scene with a bang.  Now, some key figures think the frontrunner image has receded to the point where the Antiguan movement could sorely use a lift.

 

The name of Lord Baldwin came up repeatedly. We’re talking about pan in Antigua, right? So who is this Lord Baldwin, anyway—a seasoned bard, perhaps, in the kingdom of calypso, pan’s long-time companion folk art? Not quite. Would you believe, real honest-to-goodness British nobility! Lord Baldwin happened to be Governor of the Leeward Islands just in time to anoint the fledgling Antiguan steel band movement, declare it worthy of respect and preservation, when the hoity-toity of Antiguan citizenry were poised to deliver a death-dealing kick-in-the-rump to what they considered a public nuisance.
click for full story


Web Posted - Monday November 10, 2008
When Steel Talks

From Bamboo Patch
to Buckingham Palace
with Sterling Betancourt
Vignettes of Pan History
 

London, England - It has been said that the only thing new in the world is the history you don’t know. With pan’s genesis still a head-scratcher even for trivia buffs, the history of the steel band still comes up fresh no matter who’s recounting the events that led from the bamboo to the steel pan.

 

Sterling Betancourt wears pan nostalgia like a family heirloom. Some 50 years after the birth of the steel band, he still finds it chic to perpetuate the five-note bass by including the venerable instrument in his steel pan trio, which has been playing the night club circuit in London for the past 34 years.

 

It was pan that introduced Betancourt to a lifestyle that seemed as remote from his wildest dreams as a youngster growing up in Laventille, Trinidad, as well..., the steel pan’s ultimate spinoff from the bamboo.
click for full story


Web Posted - Monday November 10, 2008
When Steel Talks

Pan In London
Coming into Sharper Focus in ’86
 

London, England - London—And con artists, too. But mostly it’s jealousy, politics, false national pride, philosophical differences over promotion of the culture, inflated egos and a little racism—all hurdles the steelband movement here must overcome someday before it becomes the universal reference point of pan, Trinidad notwithstanding.

 

....“Pan in the United Kingdom surprised me,” said Kimi Christopher, newly appointed Trinidad & Tobago Tourist Board manager for the U.K. and Europe. “The scope is bigger here than in the U.S. (where she formerly was manager of the Board’s New York office.” Trinidad, too, she could have added, without being facetious.
click for full story


Web Posted - Sunday November 9, 2008
Baltimore Sun

The beat of a different drum
The Caribbean sounds of the steel pans ring out for students at Ring Factory Elementary School
 

Baltimore, Maryland - Some of the students at Ring Factory Elementary were excited when they heard a steel drum band was being started at the school.

Olivia Vach played drums at home but wanted to try something new. Daniel Cullinan wanted to be challenged. And Christopher "CJ" Plumer wanted to learn an instrument that not everybody plays.

"Steel drums are unique," said CJ, 10, a fifth-grader from Bel Air. "I think having a steel drum band in our school gives kids a chance to see what it's like to do something challenging when they get older. The steel drum band gives little kids something to look forward to."

The three youngsters, along with 26 other fourth- and fifth-graders, auditioned and were selected to play in the band this year.
click for more


Web Posted - Sunday November 9, 2008
Miami Herald

Majoring in church music
A unique church music degree program at Florida Memorial University helps students become church music directors or performing artists
 

Miami, Fla. - Jermaine Butler, 24, says his prayers have been answered at Florida Memorial University, where he can combine his love for gospel music with an education, thanks to the school's church music degree.

The degree is part of the school's accredited music program, which is the only one of its kind among historically black Florida colleges and universities.
 

....The degree's genesis dates back to 1996 and aims to provide musicians with both the theoretical knowledge and technical abilities to be credentialed music professionals, said Dawn Batson-Borel, chair of FMU's visual and performing arts and an associate professor of music.

''Throughout the history of the school, we've had a number of talented church and jazz musicians, but they were often unable to find jobs because they didn't have the piece of paper,'' Batson-Borel said.
click for more


Web Posted - Saturday November 8, 2008
Roanoke Times

Sounds of the Islands: Two Blacksburg Steel Drum Bands Will Host a Caribbean Music Fest Today at Virginia Tech
 

Virginia, USA - Anyone walking into the Blacksburg Recreation Center on Monday nights might feel as if they're going to the beach instead.

The PanJammers and Island Pan, steel drum bands in Blacksburg, practice there each week.

Today, the groups will host a Caribbean Music Fest at Virginia Tech. The PanJammers and Island Pan will join with the Pan Divas from Hollins University, the Mandara Eastern Dance Ensemble, the Blacksburg High School Flag Corp, violinist Daniel Scheck, Dance.tech and Brass Caribe.

"We're excited," said longtime PanJammers member Charles Woerner. "It's also challenging because any time you join with other groups it's challenging."
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Web Posted - Friday November 7, 2008
When Steel Talks

Toward Standardized Pans

Trinidad, W.I. - Some say that given pan music’s relative newness, which makes ongoing exploration in the tuning area a foregone conclusion, any move toward standardized instruments would be premature. For others, such talk just doesn’t wash. Today’s fast-moving, high-tech pace, they say, demands that, as a category of instruments, steel pans should be no less conventional that other vehicles of musical sound.

So the battle is joined, and associate editor Bert Boldon has here unleashed the initial broadside in what should be some interesting give and take. More important, it should all prove to be of immense value to the art form.
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Web Posted - Friday November 7, 2008
Trinidad Guardian

The growing disrespect of pan
 

Trinidad, W.I. - There are those who feel pan and panmen should go to hell!

At the recent annual general meeting (AGM) held at the Crowne Plaza, Wrightson Road, Port- of-Spain, Pan Trinbago president Patrick Arnold lamented the “disrespect” shown to his organisation by its non-involvement in the Pan In Schools initiative and the establishment of the National Steel Symphony Orchestra (NSSO)....

A PNM senator, a small fry, added to the disrespect by treating the issue as no big thing. What utter nonsense for a young man who’s supposed to have a brain.

....Perhaps the biggest disrespect in pan history in recent times was perpetuated on Friday night at what was supposed to be the T&T Pan Jazz Festival’s “pan on the road” event around the Queen’s Park Savannah. Armed with a certificate of permission from the authorities, the organisers were rudely informed on the evening, with thousands of pan lovers in attendance, that there would be no parade of the nation’s top steel orchestras on the road.
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Web Posted - Thursday November 6, 2008
Trinidad Guardian

Sound, Soul, Steel explodes
 

Trinidad, W.I. - Grammy award winner Al Jarreau marked his return to local shores with a scintillating performance at Saturday’s season finale of the highly anticipated T&T Steelpan and Jazz Festival held at Queen’s Hall, St Ann’s.

There, the 67-year-old US entertainer and his band of merry musicians wrapped music lovers with a performance that fulfilled audience expectations.

Building of the theme of this year’s festival—“Sound, Soul and Steel”—Jarreau effortlessly proved why Time Magazine describes his voice as being, “still as stunning, silken and staggering as ever, with a range and agility that would be impressive at any age.”

....When it came time for the instrumental showcase, [Robert] Greenidge reminded patrons why he’s considered the smoothest pannist alive, and the best pannist in the world in some circles.

Having such an envied status certainly explained why this dynamic musician dominated the spotlight more than any other artiste on the night’s playbill.
click for full story


Web Posted - Wednesday November 5, 2008
Wheaton Wire

New student steel band
makes deal with
international music mentors
 

Illinois, USA - The SGA Senate recently recognized the formation of a brand new group on the Wheaton campus, the Lymin' Lyons. As the college's first steel drum orchestra, they will be responsible for introducing a completely new type of music to students.

The founding of the club was fueled by the Pamberi Steel Orchestra, a highly respected Trinidadian steel drum group that sparked interest in this distinctive type of music when they visited campus for Homecoming. The number of perspective members for the club doubled in size since their visit. Wheaton's relationship with Pamberi stretches considerably further than many would assume.

Professor Searles was first introduced to them in 2005, since she's made subsequent trips to Trinidad. Thirty Wheaton students have had the opportunity to play with them on two January Abroad trips in 2007-8.
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Web Posted - Wednesday November 5, 2008
Shorelines.com

Holiday celebration,
Caribbean style
 

Florida, USA - A Jacksonville steel pan band will celebrate the holiday season Caribbean style with a benefit concert later this month in downtown Jacksonville.

An American Carnival - A Holiday Celebration with Caribbean Sound will take place at 6 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 29, at the Florida Theatre.

"The vast majority of our performances are outside of Jacksonville," said Caribbean Sound director/manager Barry Olsavsky. "This concert will provide a great opportunity for a lot of people in the community who know us and don't get to see us perform very often."

In addition to Olsavsky, Caribbean Sound features Mike Wilson, Sean Tarleton and Danny Stimpson.

Caribbean Sound has been performing traditional Calypso, contemporary classics and original compositions with the sounds of steel drums since the mid-1980s. Olsavsky and Wilson met while music students at the University of North Florida.
click for full story


Web Posted - Tuesday November 4, 2008
Dyersburg State Gazette

UTM Steel Drum Band to kick off Community Concert season
 

Tennessee, USA - The 2008-2009 Community Concert season is about to begin, with its first concert scheduled for Sunday, Nov. 16.

The University of Tennessee at Martin's Steel Drum Band will kick off a varied schedule of events for music lovers in the area. The band, directed by Dr. Julie Hill, will perform at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 16, in the Yates Auditorium. The auditorium is located in the Professional Development Center at 305 College St. in Dyersburg.

The UTM Percussion Ensemble, founded in the fall of 1969, has only had two directors in almost four decades.
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Web Posted - Monday November 3, 2008
When Steel Talks

‘Brazilian Flagwoman’ sung by Anselm Douglas
2009 Panorama Tune
composed by M. Loquan and A. Samaroo
 

Composed by Amrit Samaroo and Mark Loquan, ‘Brazilian Flagwoman’ also features lyrics by Samaroo, with vocals by veteran artist Anselm Douglas - resulting in one more musical option for the 2009 Trinidad and Tobago Panorama season.
click to hear


Web Posted - Monday November 3, 2008
WoWKTV.com

FSHS starts
new Steel Drum Band
 

West Virginia, USA - The Polar Bear Band is branching out and trying new things, including starting a brand new steel drum band.

Director A. Shawn Dunn has been playing the instrument for about fifteen years and said that he wanted to share the experience with his students. Dunn's students say that they are really enjoying the experience.

Steel drums can have anywhere from two to more than thirty different notes hammered into the drum.

The steel drums used in most schools have the note names written on the different positions on the drum.
click for full story


Web Posted - Monday November 3, 2008
Trinidad Guardian

A ‘Smooth’ moment gone
 

Trinidad, W.I. - Celebrated pan arranger Leon “Smooth” Edwards brought one of the most magical moments to local entertainment at the October 25 staging of the T&T Steelpan and Jazz Festival produced by the Queen’s Royal College (QRC) Foundation.

Venue was Queen’s Hall, St Ann’s, where Edwards appeared twice on stage, during a fusion performance with his resident band Neal and Massy Trinidad All Stars Steel Orchestra and the T&T Police Band, on a programme titled Slinger: The Mighty Sparrow.

There, artistes on the night—which included local-based international musician Etienne Charles—chose music from Sparrow’s vast repertoire which the audience treasured.

But as defining as the moment was supposed to be, it wasn’t.

Appearing twice and playing the double second pan located on the western end of the stage, Edwards delivered improvisational works that were mainly inaudible.
click for full story


Web Posted - Sunday November 2, 2008
Trinidad Newsday

Senate pandemonium
 

Trinidad, W.I. - The unexpectedly good speeches in last Wednesday’s Senate debate on a bill to govern a new national steelband showed that Trinis are truly disciples of Oscar Wilde – serious about the trivial things in life, and trivial about the serious things. While debate on the most pressing issue of crime has seemingly stuttered to a halt with the motion lost in the murky regions of the parliamentary order paper, last week by contrast the Senators put their best foot forward to talk pan.

Minister of Culture, Marlene Mc Donald, used all of her ample assets of integrity, humility and affability to endow the bill with as much credibility as possible,

The “Trinidad and Tobago National Steelband Symphony Orchestra” certainly sounded grandiose on the lips of Madam Minister!

She explained at length why this bill so vitally inserted the term “symphony” to upgrade what was formerly merely an “orchestra”.
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Web Posted - Saturday November 1, 2008
Sun Weekend

AGS dethroned – OCS pronounced new champs
 

St. John’s, Antigua & Barbuda - Just about two hours after its intended start and amidst showers of blessings, the ABIB Ottos Comprehensive School were adjudged the 2008 Independence Schools’ Panorama champions. Defeating two-time champs Curtain Bluff Antigua Grammar School, who placed a shocking second runner-up, the Ottos Comprehensive School stampeded the stage at the announcement of their win, some already anticipating their name being called as the champions.

Playing King Short Shirt’s Rock & Prance, which they’d entertained the crowd with during every break throughout the show, squeezing in as much practice time as possible certainly paid off. Arranged by Victor “Babu” Samuel, the students gave a strong performance, with every section of the steel orchestra audible throughout the performance. With a high energy in their composition and the talent to boot, it wasn’t a big discrepancy that they’d taken the championship.
click for full story


Web Posted - Saturday November 1, 2008
Trinidad Guardian

Regrello marks anniversary
with pan celebration
 

Trinidad, W.I. - Junia Regrello will mark his one year anniversary as the Member of Parliament for San Fernando West with a pan celebration tomorrow.

It is one of several events Regrello will host at the TCL Group Skiffle Bunch Pan Theatre in San Fernando, during the month of November.

He said on Wednesday, there will be an Interfaith service at the Coffee Street pan theatre to give thanks to the people who have pledged their support and commitment to him during the past year.

Parang will also feature prominently on November 14. A Youth Festival scheduled for November 15, will mark the culmination of events

In terms of the pan celebration, Regrello, who has captained Skiffle Bunch over the years, said he could imagine no other way to mark this milestone.
click for full story


Web Posted - Saturday November 1, 2008
Trinidad Guardian

Silver Stars celebrates
with Parang and Steel
 

Trinidad, W.I. - Silver Stars Steel Orchestra will be kicking off its 60th anniversary activities with a special edition of the ever popular Parang & Steel at its Tragerete Road Panyard, Newtown, this evening.

This year’s event is historic as many of the band’s pioneers who reside abroad and who have never witnessed Parang & Steel are among the specially invited guests.

These include Ronnie and Ray Chang, Roy Young, Selwyn Gomes, Hugh Mose and Peter Quong Sing.

Parang & Steel, the brainchild of captain/arranger Edwin Pouchet, was created 18 years ago to fulfill the desire of fans and supporters of pan and parang.
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Web Posted -
When Steel Talks

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