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March 2011


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“The Bradley Years”

The Bradley Years represent the definitive collection of steelband music arrangements and performances for a large steel orchestra. This collection showcases seven classic arrangements from the master arranger Clive Bradley.  Bradley is considered to be the best steelband music arranger ever by many, including his peers.  In addition, the arrangements are performed by one of the finest steelbands in the world, New York’s Pantonic Steel Orchestra. Clive Bradley had a very special relationship with Pantonic.  This orchestra clinched the title of panorama champions five times in seven years - performing Bradley’s musical works.  The performances were captured by Basement Recordings days before, and in one instance, mere moments before they took the stage for the prestigious annual steelband music panorama competition.  The recordings capture, reproduce and present an unrivalled clarity with sonic realism, of a large steel orchestra fielding between one hundred and one hundred twenty musicians - unlike any other steelband music recordings in its class.   

This body of musical work is a sterling addition for all fans, educators, players, historians and fine music collectors.
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 Pan in New York 2009

Global - Experience the beauty of the steelpan instrument through the two latest CD releases from Basement Recordings.  Three-minute samples from the Pan In New York 2009 CDs - of both regular and slow tempo performances - are being featured.  Content is being added, so keep checking regularly.   Both “Pan In New York 2009,” and “Pan In New York 2009 - The Cooldown Versions” are a continuation of the Pan-4-Life series from Basement Recordings.
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Web Posted - Thursday March 31, 2011
The Pulse Journal

PanFest to feature 150 steel instruments on one stage
 

Ohio, USA - Musicians from around the region are steeling themselves for PanFest this weekend at Miami University.

PanFest, a collaborative performance consisting of world-renowned steel bands, regional high school steel bands, and the Miami University Steel Band, will be presented by the Miami Performing Arts Series at 7:30 p.m. April 9 in Millett Hall, 500 E. Sycamore Street.

Performers will include the Pan Ramajay Trio and Liam Teague, a leading steel pan artist.

During the first half of the concert, the Miami University Steel Band will play, as will the Eastern Kentucky University Steel Band, directed by MU alum Jason Koontz. The second half of the concert will bring together talent of eight steel bands from three states who will combine in “mass band” fashion.
read more


Web Posted - Thursday March 31, 2011
ABC News 2

School bands join together to bring sounds from the islands to Baltimore County
 

Maryland, USA - No, you’re not basking in the sun on a Caribbean Island, you’re at the Parkville High School gymnasium and it’s a celebration of steel drum music.

Seven area Baltimore County Public School steel drum bands performed at the annual Panorama Wednesday Night.

“The kids love it, we just have a blast playing. We can do so many different styles,” says Chris Gnagey, Director of the Parkville High School Steel Drum Band.

read more


Web Posted - March 31, 2011
Trinidad & Tobago Guardian

Sweet sound of pan comes to Cedros
 

Cedros, Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - Many came out to the sweet sound of pan on Sunday evening as Pan Trinbago brought Pan in The Country-side to the community of Cedros. Under inclement weather conditions, villagers were in a festive mood as they partied in the rain at the Cedros Recreational Grounds. Pan in The Country-side is one of the brainchild of Pan Trinbago president Keith Diaz. The bands featured in the pan exhibition included Point Fortin Tornado, La Brea Nightingales, Solo Harmonites, Carib Woodbrook Playboyz and others.

The 2011 $2 million National Panorama champion Neal and Massy Trinidad All Stars moved the crowd with some splendid performances of its past and present renditions.
read more


Web Posted - Wednesday March 30, 2011
--- Originally posted - April 10, 2004
When Steel Talks

Emmanuel Riley - Pan Tuner and Renowned Pan Soloist Revisited
 

Emmanuel 'Jack' ReilyGlobal - You’ve heard of Len “Boogsie” Sharpe and Robert Greenidge, two of the best steelpan players on the planet. Now in an exclusive When Steel Talks interview meet Emmanuel “Jack” Riley - the man who influenced them and a generation of top pan players. Emmanuel Riley, now based in New York, is one of the steelpan instrument’s true living legends - he is a Master pan craftsman, tuner, and renowned soloist... Mr. Riley was honored in New York at Lincoln Center on June 20th, 2004 at the Acoustic Revolution Pan Jazz concert for pioneering the art of improvisational jazz playing and contributions to the steelpan art-form... Mr. Riley is one of the best of a special generation of young people who were both great players and master instrument makers.
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Web Posted - Wednesday March 30, 2011
When Steel Talks

The Dr., the Trinidad Guardian Newspaper, and unauthorized “borrowing”
 

Snapshot of first installment of Dr. Remy's article, as printed in the March 24, 2011 edition of the Trinidad Guardian newspapersGlobal - It has been brought to our attention that works of Dr. Jeannine Remy (Observations about Panorama 2011) which were written exclusively for When Steel Talks (WST) upon our request - to share with our members and the Global steelband community, were “borrowed” by the Trinidad Guardian Newspapers on no less than two occasions without her expressed permission, and certainly without that of When Steel Talks. This “borrowing” and republishing has left Dr. Remy less than pleased.
read more


Web Posted - Wednesday March 30, 2011
When Steel Talks

“In The Rainforest” – An Unforgettable Steelband Experience
by Mark Loquan
 

Skiffle Bunch Steel Orchestra perform "In the Rainforest" at the 2000 World Steelband FestivalGlobal - ....I returned to Trinidad in October 2000, specifically to play tenor with Skiffle Bunch, but I had only a week to learn the two pieces “In the Rainforest” and “Pan By Storm” before the finals. What a monumental effort. I remember learning the pieces from a member in the band, and also from pieces of the score which was being written at the same time. I stood in Pat Bishop’s house going over section by section. It was an incredible amount of music to learn in such a short period, with the band set up just outside the stadium [Jean Pierre Complex] practicing every night. I had to sleep, eat and dream the music, and “practice, practice practice” but eventually I felt comfortable by the final night.
click for full article


Web Posted - Tuesday March 29, 2011
Towson Times

For Stoneleigh youngsters, interest in steel drum band is elementary
Youngsters poised for showtime at Baltimore County’s annual Panorama event, March 30
 

Maryland, USA - Of the seven steel drum bands performing at the 10th Baltimore County Public Schools Panorama event March 30 at Parkville High School, only one comes from an elementary school.

Stoneleigh Elementary School’s steel drummers are ready to bring their island sound to the Parkville stage.

But some of the musicians are a little nervous.

“It’s a lot of people and they’re just staring at you,” said Idlewylde resident Jeheiel Smith, a Stoneleigh fourth-grader.

According to Stoneleigh music teacher Jackie Blinke, who also teaches at Padonia International Elementary School, this concert is “a huge deal” for her fourth-grade students, who had performed before a large audience only once before — their own parents.

“This is their first major public performance,” she said.
read more


Web Posted - Monday March 28, 2011
When Steel Talks

Do something for Pan and get EDUCATED!
by Khuent Rose
 

Global - ....The Pan movement utterly lacks humility amongst its peers and supporters; conversely, it lacks audacity and a sense of community against its offenders...

....“Boogsie” had it right … “Do something for Pan”. Not for your ego. Not for the political assailants that, at the drop of a farthing would sell out everything that makes pan beautiful to the highest bidder.
click for full article


Web Posted - Monday March 28, 2011
When Steel Talks

The Renegades Situation!
by Sandra L. Blood
 

Global - Crash landed, put out, not their season, ‘robbed’, ‘humbled’, disturbed or committed suicide; whichever the thought, description or reality…Renegades’ spirit battles with its Panorama fatality in the wake of the lethal bomb dropped on the competition semi-finals’ night. In its wake, shrapnel and dust to take toll, while, Pan Trinbago apologized and promised better conditions from 2012…and life continues!
click for full article


Web Posted - Sunday March 27, 2011
Tje North Bay Nugget

Alliance students bring island sun to North Bay with the sounds of steel drums
 

Canada - Members of the Northern Lights Steel Orchestra were in North Bay Friday to teach staff and students at Alliance French Immersion Public School how to play the steel drums.

The orchestra members travel throughout Ontario and say the classes give students confidence in themselves and to perform.

Students gave a concert in front of their classmates at the end of the school day.
click for original post


Web Posted - Sunday March 27, 2011
When Steel Talks

Panorama 2011 in Living Color “When SteelPan Pictures Talk”

Compliments of Pan Podium

Global - When Steel Talks has had both the good fortune of having within our organization (C. Phillips, R. Pope),  and/or being associated with the finest steelpan photographers and photo journalists in the world.

This year photo journalist Robbie Joseph of Pan Podium takes us on   a visual expedition through the  2011 Panorama Finals in living color. Again that fabulous story of steelpan musicians and fans at panorama is delivered in uncompromising beauty.
click to see photos


Web Posted - Saturday March 26, 2011
When Steel Talks

Veteran Arranger Pelham Goddard Speaks to the “Insanity” of Panorama Judging
 

Global -  It is the view of the public-at-large that Panorama music today has become the judges' piece, and does not have the sound and feel of arrangers' music of long ago. Recently I read a comment on When Steel Talks in which the person spoke about the real panorama hit tunes of years gone by.

Pan Trinbago is conducting seminars in which arrangers meet with the judges who will guide the arrangers in producing their work for the market. This is bordering on insanity since these very judges are unqualified to guide any arranger as they are generally NOT arrangers. ....How then can these judges guide arrangers who are, more likely than not, more skilled than they in the area of arranging?
read more


Web Posted - Friday March 25, 2011
When Steel Talks

Steel Pan Blueprint For Success
(Rough Draft Edit)
 

A New York panyardTrinidad & Tobago, W.I.  - Recently, a pan colleague asked me what were my ideas on what needs to be done to “revive the pan movement...” (as he put it). In relation to that question, I thought I would present to everyone a document I actually started to create about 2-3 months ago. I, by no means, think that I have all (or any) solutions to the issues facing panists, especially the local performers, but I did offer sincere thought into this, and I appreciate any feedback/criticism, both positive and negative.
read more


Web Posted - Friday March 25, 2011
News Guardian

Band top of the class
 

North Tyneside SteelbandTyne and Wear, England - North Tyneside Steelband has been hitting the right notes as it won several classes at Ryton and Wansbeck music festivals.

The under-16, under-18 and over-18 groups came first in their classes, while the over-18 group achieved the top ‘outstanding’ grade from the adjudicators.

Playing a mixture of classics, pop and Caribbean music, they added colour, style and fun to the festivals.

Under-18 player Alice Adams, from Backworth, said: “We don’t usually play in age groups so we had to rehearse a bit, especially for these festivals, but we can do that sort of thing – it’s a lot of fun.”
read more


Web Posted - Friday March 25, 2011
Trinidad & Tobago’s Newsday

THA blanks Tobago TUCO
but assists in Steelband transportation costs
 

Tobago, W.I. - ....“We are not prepared to give any further funding to TUCO [Trinbago Unified Calypsonians Organisation] (Tobago) without an account of how the previous funds ($1 million) were utilised,” she stressed. On the other hand, she revealed the THA [Tobago House of Assembly] had taken a decision to financially assist those Tobago calypsonians who had qualified to participate in competitions in Trinidad. She explained the Division would assist by meeting “some of their costs”. Meanwhile, she reported that the THA would also be providing some $1 million to assist with transportation and accommodation costs of those Tobago steelbands which made it to the National Panorama semi-finals/finals in Trinidad.

She noted Pan Trinbago had put the overall cost of the undertaking for the Tobago bands’ participation at some $2.06 million, with Pan Trinbago footing the rest of the bill.

A record seven steelbands from Tobago qualified for competition in Trinidad this year, and Davidson-Celestine noted that this amount had not been anticipated, so in the circumstances the Assembly had to pitch in and assist.
read more


Web Posted - Thursday March 24, 2011
Houston Community Newspapers

Steel Drum Festival this weekend in Kemah
NY’s Freddie Harris, III & Mustafa Alexander headline
 

Texas, USA -  The Kemah Lighthouse District comes alive with the beat of steel drums, fire dancers, exotic bird shows, a pet contest and a large variety of entertainment as the 8th Annual Kemah "Pan Jam" Steel Drum Festival sets up shop this Saturday and Sunday, March 26 and 27.

"Pan Jam" is defined by authentic Caribbean steel drums, calypso and reggae musicians who have performed all over the world.

Headliners for this year’s Kemah festival are Freddy Harris III and Mustafa Alexander, both out of New York. Also featured are Jerry Diaz and Hanna's Reef, San Jacinto College, University of Houston-Clear Lake and Lone Star College steel drum bands and many other entertaining groups.

“We also have a new kidz zone this year with lots of cool stuff for the little ones,” Event Director Sandra Williams said.
read more


Web Posted - Thursday March 24, 2011
Toronto Community News

Toronto police mark day to eliminate racial discrimination
 

The North Albion Collegiate Institute Steel Band performed at 23 Division headquarters in north EtobicokeToronto, Canada - The North Albion Collegiate Institute Steel Band performed at 23 Division headquarters in north Etobicoke Thursday morning to celebrate the Toronto Police Service's 10th Annual recognition of the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. This year's theme is "One Community, Many Voices."

....The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination - one of both "celebration and sober reflection" - stems back to a fateful day on March 21, 1960, when South African police opened fire on protestors at a peaceful demonstration against the apartheid pass laws in Sharpeville, killing 69 people and wounding many others.
read more


Web Posted - Thursday March 24, 2011
Yale Daily News

Pan Jam & Lime Steel Band to Perform at Sengbe Pieh Awards Ceremony
 

Connecticut, USA - Pan Jam & Lime, Yale's community steel band, will perform at the 10th Annual Sengbe Pieh Awards Ceremony to be held at First and Summerfield United Methodist Church on Sunday, March 27 at 3:00 p.m. This year's awardees are Olga Rodriguez, a counselor at Hill Central High School, and Ruth and Sam Teitelman, long-time advocates for mentally retarded and physically challenged people in the state. This event is free and open to the public. A reception immediately follows the service. First and Summerfield United Methodist Church is located at the corner of Elm and College Streets.
read original post


Web Posted - Wednesday March 23, 2011
--- Originally posted - March 8, 2009
When Steel Talks   Special  - A Celebration of Women

A British Pan Woman
by Rachel Hayward

United Kingdom - This March marks the 25th anniversary of my involvement with pan. Forty years ago pans were introduced into British schools through the efforts of renowned pan pioneers such as Gerald Forsyth and Russell Henderson. My secondary school – the Radcliffe, in the new city of Milton Keynes - started their steelband in 1984, and despite having never seen or heard pan before, and as I was involved in every other musical activity possible (orchestras, choirs and so on) I was not going to be left out of something that looked as interesting as these mysterious new instruments.
click for more


Web Posted - Wednesday March 23, 2011
When Steel Talks

Jomo Wahtuse gets Guinness World Record for Largest Steelpan - Jomoline
 

The JomolineGlobal -  Jomo Wahtuse was awarded the Guinness World Record for the largest steelpan in the world - the Jomoline. His claim for the Largest steel pan / steel drum - Claim Number: 313592 with the Guinness Book for Records has been successful, and confirmation of his feat was validated by Damian Field, PR Executive of the Guinness World Records. Jomo constructed the instrument over thirty-four years ago.
read more


Web Posted - Wednesday March 23, 2011
Cherokeean Herald

SFA Steel Band concert features acclaimed solo artist
 

Texas, USA -  Acclaimed musician Tracy Thornton will join the Stephen F. Austin State University's Steel Band for its annual concert at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 29, in Cole Concert Hall.

The 10-member ensemble, directed by SFA Associate Professor of
Percussion Scott Harris, performs on a full set of steel pans made from 55-gallon oil drums, and a large array of Latin percussion instruments. A four-piece horn section rounds out the band.

Thornton, who was the tenor panist for the bands Been Caught Steelin' and Sons of Steel and serves as the music director of four steel drum bands, will perform both as a solo artist and with the SFA ensemble.

"The program includes two of Thornton's own compositions, 'In the
Groove of Things' and 'Dain Bramage,'" said Harris. "Both pieces are highly energetic and have a strong rock influence."
read more


Web Posted - Wednesday March 23, 2011
Trinidad Express

T&T-based Japanese producer plans pan music CD
 

doing what he can: Japanese recording engineer and musician, Yoichi Wantanabe is putting together a compilation CD with the assistance of local pannists and steelbands to assist in raising funds for the people of Japan, which was devasted recently by a 9.0 earthquake followed by a tsunamiTrinidad & Tobago, W.I. -  The local steelband movement is set to assist the people of Japan in their recovery from the devastation wrought upon the nation by the recent earthquake and the tsunami that followed. Initially graded at a strength of 8.9 on the Richter Scale the earthquake was on March 14 upgraded to an intensity of 9.0 by the United States Geological Survey and Japanese officials, making it the fourth strongest in the world since 1900.

Japanese music producer, Yoichi Wantanabe who has been recording pan music here for the past several years told the Express several steel orchestras, panists and arrangers have offered to assist in raising funds for the people of Japan. He is already working on producing a compilation CD that will feature orchestras, pan soloists, single pans and ensembles.
read more


Web Posted - Monday March 21, 2011
The Palm Beach Post

How Steve Hendrickson turned his love of music into his ‘job’
 

Steve HendricksonFlorida, USA      -  Steve Hendrickson has lived a life that is sure to make most — especially boaters — jealous. His job landed him in the Caribbean and, while there, his interest in music evolved into a passion. After returning to the States, Hendrickson turned that passion into a career, and the Florida native vowed never to “work” another day in his life.

On March 24-27, Hendrickson will bring his steel drums, guitar and vocal chords to the Palm Beach International Boat Show, where he will take the stage for the first time. The Palm Beach Post recently spoke with him about his life — which most people only dream of — as well as his music and upcoming performance.

....“After college, my wife Dawn and I both became scuba-diving instructors and charter-boat captains, and we skippered yachts down in the Caribbean. While living there, we fell in love with steel drums. We had both grown up playing instruments, and we decided to give steel drums a shot.”

“We bought our first set in Trinidad and learned how to play. We moved from the Caribbean to the Keys and finally to Orlando, and we formed a professional steel-drum band. We have played at Universal Studios and other theme parks, and we play at Margaritaville in Orlando quite a bit.”
read more


Web Posted - Sunday March 20, 2011
When Steel Talks

Are Small Bands Panorama Mascots?
by Michael L. Joseph, President
Southern Marines Steelband Foundation

 

Southern Marines on StageTrinidad & Tobago  -  Panorama 2011, to me was a disaster. It started very normal, with the national prelims in the Region. Then came the National Semi-Finals, where small bands were used as Mascots for the Large and Medium bands. How else would one describe a Panorama starting at 9:00 am, in Trinidad, on a Sunday, with people who went out the night before still in bed, and most of those who are up, going to church and Market, and not planning to leave their homes until after lunch? That’s the reality of a Sunday.
read more


Web Posted - Sunday March 20, 2011
When Steel Talks

Symposium to Examine Carnival’s Creative and Commercial Inputs
 

Devilish looking Jab Jab-like character in New York's J'OuvertBrooklyn, NY  -  Right on the heels of this year’s pre-Lenten Carnival celebrations, a symposium will address the question of the Trinidad and Tobago masquerade’s traditional creativity and what presence it commands in the highly commercialized 21st century look of the festival today. Sharing the Carnival Space: Creative Endeavor and Open-Ended Commercialism is a presentation of the Trinidad & Tobago Folk Arts Institute in conjunction with the School of Professional and Community Development of Medgar Evers College, CUNY. It will be held Thursday evening, March 24 in Mary Pinkett Lecture Hall on the Medgar Evers College campus, from 7:00 to 10:00 PM.
read more


Web Posted - Sunday March 20, 2011
When Steel Talks

More Panorama 2011 Notes by Dalton Narine
 

Fonclaire Steel OrchestraTrinidad & Tobago, W.I. -  Now that I can see things more clearly since eye surgery, allow me to avail readers with more material from the 2011 Panorama. And, yes, I trust my ears.

“....Fonclaire’s “A Raging Storm” carries a bold line that surely resonates both in the Grand Stand and The North Stand, which sits one-third empty in stark contrast to an arty light show playing all night on the ceiling, sometimes matching colors with uniforms of panists assembled at mid-stage, squarely in front of the judges. “Dey tief we ‘Pan by Storm’ in 1990.” Perhaps to underline that sentiment, players are dressed to the nines - in black. Maybe they plan to put that horrible experience to rest once and for all.”
read more


Web Posted - Saturday March 19, 2011
Severn Patch

Steel Drum Bands Rock Old Mill’s Gymnasium
 

People from around the area enjoy the performances of five different schoolsMaryland, USA - Steel drum bands from five local high schools shook the gymnasium floor Friday night at Old Mill High’s sixth annual Panorama concert.

Bands from Catonsville, Perry Hall, Sparrows Point, and Parkville high school joined Old Mill's two steel drum groups for a concert that had the audience dancing to the beat.

Several familiar tunes were played that had the audience clapping along, including Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believing” and “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” from Disney's “The Lion King."

The first steel drum band was brought to Catonsville High School 20 years ago by enthusiast Jim Wharton, the Music Department Chairman at Catonsville. Now, nine other Maryland high schools have steel drum bands.
read more


Web Posted - Friday March 18, 2011
When Steel Talks

It’s ‘Pan in de countryside’ says Pan Trinbago
 

Harmonites Steel OrchestraTrinidad & Tobago  -  ‘Pan in de countryside’ is the latest innovation by Pan Trinbago. As the name suggests, it is taking steelpan to the countryside, and “to people who would not ordinarily have the opportunity to come to the city to hear bands, therefore the organization will be bringing it to them.”

The first in the series of concerts takes place on Sunday 27th March 2011 at the Cedros Recreational Ground, Cedros, from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The featured bands include Panorama 2011 Large Band Champions Trinidad All Stars, Harmonites, La Brea Nightingales, Tornadoes, Self Help Marines and Woodbrook Playboyz.
read more


Web Posted - Friday March 18, 2011
When Steel Talks

Observations about Panorama 2011
by Jeannine Remy
 

Invaders Steel OrchestraTrinidad & Tobago  -  ....The south stands were full of people who waited in anticipation for the large bands and all of their splendour. Never before have I attended a panorama final with so much confetti, glimmering decorations, balloons, fireworks and sound effects.

....I was fortunate enough to have a seat to the right of the judges behind the radio announcers, as this was one of the “benefits” to having adjudicated the single pan competition. Since Channels 4 & 16 did not get the contract to broadcast, Orville Wright and I had our own little private music commentary together since our seats were side by side.
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Web Posted - Friday March 18, 2011
Trinidad Guardian

Ramah in a jam
Panman needs assistance
by The Buzz
 

Errol Ramah played in 48 Panoramas since 1963.  Photo:  Nicole DraytonTrinidad & Tobago  -  A call is going out to all panatics, social services, the Housing Development Corporation (HDC)
to assist panman Errol
Ramah, also called Ramah the Jammer.

This crackshot panman, 69, has been playing the pan since the age of eight, and has the distinction of playing 48 national panoramas, first with Silver Stars, and up to a few days ago, Caribbean Airlines Invaders.

His home at 15 Vidale Street, St James, has been burnt in mysterious circumstances. Now Ramah finds himself in a jam. He lost everything, even one of his beloved dogs and seven pups.

Look, the Ramah is very unhappy these days.  He also lost his double seconds given to him by ace composer Ray Holman. It’s a tough time for Ramah.

The Buzz hopes that Pan Trinbago, Caribbean Airlines Invaders, and all pan lovers at home and abroad will pour out the love on our crestfallen brother.  You can help Ramah by calling his daughter Alana at 1 (868) 367-4341.

Ministers, Glen Ramadharsingh, are you listening? Let’s make Errol Ramah smile again.


Web Posted - Thursday March 17, 2011
When Steel Talks

Death of a Panman
by Dalton Narine
 

Henry “Bendix” CumberbatchTrinidad & Tobago - Henry “Bendix” Cumberbatch, who succumbed to heart failure February 29, arranged for three steel bands in the 1980s. He reached his peak with an arrangement of Chalkdust’s “Ash Wednesday Jail,” which placed Casablanca second in the 1983 Panorama. Desperadoes won with Clive Bradley’s treatment of Blue Boy’s “Rebecca.”
read more

 


Web Posted - Thursday March 17, 2011
When Steel Talks

Showtime at the Savannah!
A WST Review of Trinidad and Tobago's Panorama 2011
 

Trinidad All Stars Steel Orchestra on stage for Panorama 2011Trinidad & Tobago - Like a scene out of the movie Rocky, or that classic still picture of the great Muhammad Ali, towering over the feared Sonny Liston - the now seven-time champions, the legendary Trinidad All Stars emerged victorious from the annual epic musical battle of the titans of steelpan music - PANORAMA.

As the judges’ scoring would later reveal, soon after the opening bell, a TKO was delivered by Trinidad All Stars in the first round of this heavyweight finals night competition. Playing in position number one, the world-famous steel orchestra scored high enough in that lead appearance position, to ward off any attempt of being caught from behind by the other nine formidable contenders.
click for the full story, the good, bad and ugly

 


Web Posted - Wednesday March 16, 2011
BCPS News

10th Annual Panorama to showcase steel drum bands in Baltimore County Public Schools
 

Maryland, USA -  The Parkville High School Steel Drum Band, led by Chris Gnagey, will host the 10th Annual Panorama concert featuring performances from the following Baltimore County Public Schools with steel drum programs: Stoneleigh Elementary, General John Stricker Middle, Hereford Middle, Catonsville High, Parkville High, Perry Hall High, and Sparrows Point High.

The event is free and open to the public.

....Each band will perform several selections on its own including calypsos, socas, classical, and rock. At the highpoint of the evening, the bands will combine forces to create a 120-piece steel band and perform two calypsos.
read more


Web Posted - Tuesday March 15, 2011
When Steel Talks

An Inside View of the Small Band Panorama Season 2011
 

Armia Golden SymphonyTrinidad & Tobago - I wonder if even Pan Trinbago Officials were prepared for the quality of music they got at the Larry Gomes Stadium because if they were, I doubt they would have staged the show at that most inadequate arena for a Steelband Competition. But then again, we small…so I suppose we had to take that. But we show off on them, all of them and the points awarded will show that.

Sadly, for all the satisfaction that Panorama 2011 brought, I cannot help but observe some glaring negatives as well. The thing that continues to rub me the wrong way where Single and Small bands are concerned is attitude. Attitude of not just the general public towards us, but also of our very players, who quite often take their bands for granted. All the public-at-large is interested in is the end-product, the music. That steelband administrators are at their wits end to ensure nightly full house practice sessions is of no concern to the public...
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Web Posted - Monday March 14, 2011
When Steel Talks

Panorama 2011 - A Review by Dalton Narine
 

Trinidad All Stars Steel OrchestraTrinidad & Tobago - The city had been sitting prettier than in recent years - smoldering, really.

Another fine Children’s Carnival; the grand Soca Monarch finals; a strident tone infiltrating through the half-opened car window (“Who the hell is Machel Montano? Girl, I was vex!); the young woman in fishnet stockings and gym boots hanging with friends Carnival Friday night on Tragarete Road. A premonition from a voice by over so: “Despers can’t cut style.” Oh yes, and plenty of Pan on Panorama Saturday.

It could have been Fight Night the way blows landed and blood flowed on the canvas, a place we all fear.
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Web Posted - Monday March 14, 2011
When Steel Talks

The Beauty of Trinidad and Tobago
Eric Mannweiler reports on his 2011 steelband panorama experiences
 

Eric Trinidad & Tobago - As I ran through the memories of each place in front of me, I eventually began to piece it all together and appreciate everything as a whole... Trinidad- what a beautiful country! What beautiful people!! What a beautiful culture, with the most beautiful instrument, the steel pan!!!
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Web Posted - Thursday March 14, 2011
--- Originally posted - March 7, 2005
When Steel Talks   Special  - A Celebration of Women

Dr. Dawn Batson
by Dr. Dawn Batson

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - She is one of the world's foremost experts, educators and promoters of the steelpan instrument. Her name is synonymous with inspiring and guiding young musicians to achievement, greatness and academic excellence. When Steel Talks  caught Dr. Dawn Batson for a candid interview about the steelpan art form, her involvement and hopes for the instrument. Ms. Batson remembers her earliest experience with the steelpan about the age of four with Desperadoes Steel Orchestra. She was fascinated by the sound of Desperadoes and lost her family at that point but they eventually found her - within the basses in the steel orchestra. Dr. Batson who plays a few other instruments, says that "there is something about the sound of the steel orchestra that is like no other instrument" - and there lies her fascination with the instrument. "It is just a connection - I don't know if it is an ancestral connection or just the beauty of the steel... there is just a connection."
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Web Posted - Monday March 14, 2011
When Steel Talks

PanGanG: From Pan-kultur to Calypsonic
 

Germany - In 1999, the managing board of the steel pan association pan-kultur e.V. from Dortmund asked music pedagogue Werner M. Weidensdorfer if he could offer courses for children on their premises. Being an absolute pan novice, he was confronted with the sound of steel pans for the very first time at that moment and was “assimilated” immediately. Within one week, his experience as a musician and teacher combined with the craftsmanship of tuner Eckhard C. Schulz lead to the creation of the TeacherSteelPan, an elementary instrument for learning the language of music. Thus equipped, the PanKids – as they were called back then – embarked on their journey into the steel pans’ cosmos of sound, a journey which has lasted for 11 years up to now. With their TeacherPans which in the course of the early years were extended by the ranges soprano, alto, tenor and bass to form a quartet, they quickly made a name for themselves as a children’s steel band. 2004 saw the change to traditional steel pan instruments, and the PanKids became the youth steel orchestra “PanGanG”.
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Web Posted - Sunday March 13, 2011
When Steel Talks

Carnival Tuesday and Steelpan!
Eric Mannweiler reports on his 2011 steelband panorama experiences
 

Eric Trinidad & Tobago - If there is one word to describe Carnival Tuesday, it is INTENSE! Everything seemed to be taken to the extreme: the colors were brighter, the music was louder, the bands were larger, the costumes (generally) smaller, and the energy that pulsed though the streets seemed almost frenzied at times. Mas bands moved like they were on a war-path of wining and jumping up. Yet everyone was trying to free up and have fun, so everything seemed to have this relaxed freedom to it. (I can't explain how you can be both frenzied and relaxed, but that's how it seemed...)
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Web Posted - Sunday March 13, 2011
The Telegraph

Queen Mother was a Desperadoes Fan!
 

United Kingdom - Queen Mother 'enjoyed listening to Caribbean steel bands and Paul Simon' But her private music library - details of which were made public for the first time - show that the royal's preferences were remarkably eclectic. Her collection included Caribbean steel bands, Canadian yodelling, Rodgers and Hammerstein show tunes, folk music, ska and even a top-selling pop album by Paul Simon. Among the other surprises in the collection are records by The Desperadoes Steel Orchestra, a calypso band from Trinidad,...
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Web Posted - Saturday March 12, 2011
When Steel Talks

Carnival Monday and Steelpan!
Eric Mannweiler reports on his 2011 steelband panorama experiences
 

Eric Trinidad & Tobago - I noticed a totally different kind of energy and feel for Carnival Monday. J'Ouvert was more chaotic, mischievous and all about the music for Starlift, while Carnival Monday was organized and became this showcase performance of pan and mas. With the flagman opening the way, the pans up front and a giant entourage of bands and mas players behind us, it felt like the band was proudly strutting through the street as if to say "Yeah, that's right, this is STARLIFT coming through!"
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Web Posted - Saturday March 12, 2011
--- Originally posted - March 9, 2005
When Steel Talks   Special  - A Celebration of Women

Lessons In Steel
by Queen Macoomeh

Canada - Ah learn dat Renegades form in 1948. Ah learn it had women in de bacchanal since in de earlies. Ah read about men like Stephen "Goldteeth" Nicholson and Cecil "Dead" Hinkson. Ah read about Doctor Rat and dem fellas. Ah read how when Renegades and Invaders used to bounce up it was endless war! Ah learn about de tamboo bamboo. Ah learn more about de stick fight.

It good to learn about tings in yuh own hist’ry. It make mih realize I know more about Queen Elizabeth and she half crack chirren radda dan about my own people. Long ago in school ah study bout de US civil war and how King Louis de forteent lick off all he wife and dem head. Dey din teach we how we islands struggle for independence or how we come to be such rainbow people. Dey din say where did de Caribs disappear to or how come de British overlords was so chupid to make we wear dem tick powdered wigs and robes and dem woolen pants in the heat. Ah whole generation of we grow up not knowing we own self.
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Web Posted - Friday March 11, 2011
When Steel Talks

J’Ouvert in Trinidad
Eric Mannweiler reports on his 2011 steelband panorama experiences
 

Eric Trinidad & Tobago - J'Ouvert was nuts! Pure craziness... Walking from my friend's house at 3:15am to find Starlift's pan truck, there were already (still is more likely) people partying in the streets, waiting for their bands to assemble. While we loaded up the pans, people were walking by with a wide range of dress: some in shorts and t-shirts, some in old tattered clothes, some looking like they were... well, more nightly types... Men in dresses, people covered in metallic silver paint, groups of people running up and down the street chanting and randomly screaming... Around 3:30 the bands really started to assemble and by 3:50 the streets were flooded with sound trucks and their hordes of chipping, wining and paint-smearing revelers. 
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Web Posted - Thursday March 10, 2011
Tobago News

Warm welcome for winners
 

Tobago, W.I. - Katzenjammers steelband members' returned to Tobago in triumph on the ferry last Sunday morning after retaining their medium band title in the 2011 Panorama competition which took place at the Queens Park Savannah in Port of Spain.

Known as the 'Pride of Black Rock', Katzenjammers now has to be considered as the 'Pride of Tobago' after their superlative rendition of their selection 'Wake Up'. The Savannah crowd woke up big time during the pulsating rhythm and sweet melodic Edwin Pouchet arrangement of Tobago's oldest surviving steel band.

The Radio Tambrin music truck was on hand to greet the jubilant panists when they landed at the Scarbrough Port. Also arriving were NLCB Buccooneers who came in third in the contest and Steel Xplosion.
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Web Posted - Wednesday March 9, 2011
NBCSVG.com

Poorsah and Potential Steel Orchestra in Anniversary Bash
 

St. Vincent, W.I. - The Potential Steel Orchestra will be teaming up with former Calypso and Soca Monarch – Poorsah – in a grand anniversary bash this weekend.

Former Panorama champions – Potential - and Poorsah, also known for multiple Road March titles, are celebrating their 31st anniversary this year.

Public Relations Officer, Chrystal Oliver, will stage a joint celebratory show this Sunday March 13th at the Calliaqua Hard Court from 8 PM.

The event is dubbed “Potential and Poorsah Under the Tent”.

Miss Oliver tells NBC News that the band has made tremendous contributions to the youth in its 31 year existence.
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Web Posted - Thursday March 10, 2011
--- Originally posted - March 9, 2005
When Steel Talks   Special  - A Celebration of Women

Women’s Contribution to the
Steelband Movement

by Merle Albino-de Coteau
 

Trinidad - In the 1940’s, during our childhood we were fortunate to hear and appreciate in our neighbourhood a beautiful musical sound produced by a small pan played by Carl Greenidge (uncle of the now renowned panist/arranger Robert Greenidge). Carl Greenidge can be referred to as the “Father” of pan players in Success Village, Laventille, having first started “Kentuckians Steel Orchestra.” “Torrid Zone” was an off-shoot of Kentuckians which was later renamed “Savoys” (later sponsored by Chase Manhattan therefore becoming “Chase Manhattan Savoys” of which Merle Albino-de Coteau became the musical director in 1970).

Since then there has been no turning back, as I became “hooked” on this phenomenal instrument “the pan.” Hence whenever the opportunity presents itself, I try to preach the “Gospel of Pan.”
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Web Posted - Wednesday March 9, 2011
The Enterprise Newspapers

Choir’s concert features original steel band suite
 

Composer Gary Gibson, of Edmonds, rehearses music he wrote with Choir of the Sound for the Washington state premier of “In the Shadows of the Forest,” March 7, at Terrace View Presbyterian Church in Mountlake Terrace.Washington, USA - The sound of the Caribbean steel drum bands have infiltrated a wide variety of music, from the Beatles to Frank Sinatra. Beyond the classic Yellow Bird, bands have even brought the lilt of the steel pan to show tunes.

Now, an upcoming Choir of the Sound concert will feature a cantata of sorts, punctuating the versatility of a steel band orchestra. The event, marking the retirement of Judy Filibeck, artistic director of the choir, will be performed March 12 and 13 at Lynnwood's Trinity Lutheran Church. The performance will be the Washington state premier of “In the Shadows of the Forest,” a suite for steel band and choir written by Edmonds composer Gary Gibson.

Nine band players, six on steel pan and three in the “engine room” of drums, plus a 70-member choir, will perform the nine-movement suite. Each movement has a different style, focusing on African and Caribbean rhythms and influences.
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Web Posted - Tuesday March 8, 2011
--- Originally posted - March 21, 2005
When Steel Talks   Women In Pan Special

PAT BISHOP - A Person In Pan
by Pat Bishop
 

Trinidad - I can’t say that gender has been a factor in my pan yard activities – which now span so long a period of time that I’ve forgotten when it all started!

 

I remember once singing with Esso Tripoli steelband and abandoning solo singing soon afterwards in preference for pan arranging.

In those days I worked feverishly to find out what the instrument could do and I lived with the pans of Birdsong in my house for a very long time. 

They were very kind and they soon let me arrange for them, starting with simple hymn tunes.  And so too did many, many more bands.


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Web Posted - Monday March 7, 2011
The Trinidad Guardian

All Stars wins first $2m Panorama prize
 

Members of Tobago’s Katzenjammers and Valley Harps steelbands lift their trophies high as they celebrate their joint victory in the medium band category at the National Panorama finals at the Queen’s Park Savannah yesterday morningTrinidad & Tobago, W.I. - Neal & Massy Trinidad All Stars became the first steel orchestra to take home $2 million in prize money when it was adjudged winner of the large band category at the 2011 Blink bmobile National Panorama final at the Queen’s Park Savannah, Port-of-Spain, last Saturday night. Playing a Leon “Smooth” Edwards arrangement of It’s Showtime, composed by Edwin Pouchet and Alvin Daniell, the Duke Street-based orchestra scored 278 points to secure its eighth Panorama win, and in the process dethrone defending champion PCS Silver Stars which played the same selection arranged by Pouchet, but could earn only 275 points to take third place and the $750,000 prize.

....In the medium band category, adjudicators apparently found it challenging to separate the bands, resulting in three tied places among the ten competitors. Valley Harps and Katzenjammers tied for first place with 275 points. Valley Harps played Do Something For Pan, arranged by Michelle Huggins-Watts, while Tobago-based Katzenjammers chose Wake Up, another Pouchet/Daniell collaboration, arranged by Pouchet. First prize in this category is $750,000, and second is worth $650,000.
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Web Posted - Sunday March 6, 2011
Trinidad Express Newspapers

Star Power
 

 Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, centre, and Arts and Multiculturalism Minister Winston"Gypsy "Peters, at right, present the $2 million winner's cheque to Dwayne Ifill of Panorama champion Neal and Massy Trinidad All Stars at the Queen's Park Savannah, Port of Spain, on Saturday nightTrinidad & Tobago, W.I. - Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar presented the first prize at the Panorama finals on Saturday night as two points separated two bands from $2 million.

It truly was showtime for Neal and Massy Trinidad All Stars as they performed at the final of the National Panorama Competition at the Queen's Park Savannah, Port of Spain on Saturday night.

Appearing in position one, dressed in dazzling red shirts and red hats with flashing blue lights, All Stars defied the saying 'the first shall be last and the last first' as the band from Duke Street, Port of Spain outdid all competitors with its fireworks, confetti, dancers and music to take the historic $2 million first prize.

All Stars gave the Queen's Park Savannah audience eight minutes and 14 seconds of a Leon "Smooth" Edwards arrangement of Edwin Pouchet and Alvin Daniell's composition of "It's Showtime" beating defending champions PCS Silver Stars at their own game.
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Web Posted - Sunday March 6, 2011
When Steel Talks

Congratulations again to Trinidad All Stars, Katzenjammers & Valley Harps...
Take a Bow!!

 

Trinidad & Tobago -

Results Are In!


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Web Posted - Monday March 7, 2011
When Steel Talks

Panorama Finals
Eric Mannweiler reports on his 2011 steelband panorama experiences
 

Eric Trinidad & Tobago - I have to admit, it was different than I expected in a number of ways, and it was very different from Semis.

I have to say congratulations to All Stars, and as disappointed I was that Starlift didn't win (of course I was routing for us), I am happy for my friends in All Stars, as well as the members that I didn't get a chance to meet. Congratulations should be given to all of the medium and large bands that played last night, not just the winners!
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Web Posted - Sunday March 6, 2011
When Steel Talks

Panorama Notes
by Dalton Narine
 

Arranger Arddin HerbertTrinidad & Tobago - The 2011 Panorama wormed its way through the Carnival resistant to salt in its wounds. So it didn’t fold and die. Or tip open a Pandora’s Box of unbridled angst.

Panorama came home and made us comfortable, spinning tales that opened our eyes to its truth and our hearts for its soul.

It is in such context the following notes were written, to be shared for its pithy eloquence, even induce a laugh or two.
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Web Posted - Saturday March 5, 2011
The News-Herald

Mentor students introduced to steel drums
 

Mentor High School senior Matt Ranney takes some percussion instruction from The University of Akron Steel Drum Band member Jonathan Monacelli Friday at the Mentor High School Fine Arts Center.Ohio, USA - Michael Amos beats on the large steel round barrels.

He is not alone as fellow student percussionists also take part in the Mentor High School Fine Arts Center.

Michael and the others were being taught how to play the different steel dents by The Akron Steel Drum Band which performed at the school on Friday.

More than 30 high school band members got a chance to have a hands-on experience with The University of Akron drum group.

The steel band ensemble, composed of undergraduate and graduate percussion students, performs as a requirement for the degree program, and they strive to educate audiences.
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Web Posted - Saturday March 5, 2011
Trinidad & Tobago Newsday

Renegades stay out

Renegades Steel Orchestra
 

Renegades Out imageTrinidad & Tobago, W.I. - Hours before the first note is struck in tonight’s National Panorama musical treat, a judge yesterday threw out a plea by nine-time champion bp Renegades to be included in the finals at the Queen’s Park Savannah, Port-of-Spain.

The Charlotte Street-based band yesterday failed to convince Justice Maureen Rajnauth-Lee that they should be included in today’s finals because they were disrupted at the semi-final round of the competition at the Queen’s Park Savannah on February 20, because of the playing of DJ music at the North Stand during their performance.

Justice Rajnauth-Lee dismissed the steelband’s application for an injunction, which sought to stop today’s finals and include them in the line-up in the Conventional Large Band category, the winner of which will take home a $2 million first prize.

It was a first of sorts for Renegades, which has placed in the top ten of the Panorama finals since 1978. They placed 13th at the February 20 semi-finals, with 243 points for their rendition “How We Coming” - four points behind Solo Harmonites who played “Momentum.”
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Web Posted - Saturday March 5, 2011
Trinidad & Tobago Newsday

San Juan East Side Symphony

San Juan East Side Symphony – new Single Pan champs
 

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - San Juan East Side Symphony on Thursday evening dethroned five time winner La Horquetta Pan Groove to be the new Single Pan Band champions.

In a thrilling competition at the Larry Gomes Stadium, Malabar, Arima, the San Juan band impressed the judges with their performance of the song “Magician” sung by Burning Flames, arranged by Duvone Stewart.

The band which performed in eighth position, appeared on stage dressed as magicians with top hat, and black and white waistcoat. They gave one of the more entertaining performances of the evening to take home the Pan Trinbago Challenge Trophy and $250,000

After being announced the winner, the band’s captain, Andy Franco, said their success was “long deserved.”

“The players have worked hard year after year and it is about time we experience this kind of success. We played late nights; we gave our all, so this win was not a surprise to us, but we are equally as happy,” he said.
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Web Posted - Friday March 4, 2011
When Steel Talks

San Juan East Side Symphony - 2011 Single Pan Bands Champions
 

Trinidad & Tobago - San Juan East Side Symphony is the undisputed National Panorama 2011 Single Pan Champion.

Playing the Duvone Stewart arrangement of Burning Flames’ “Magician”, San Juan East Side amassed 284 points to take home the Pan Trinbago Challenge Trophy and $250,000. The band which hails from Second Street, Barataria, maintained the stellar position at all stages of the competition widening the lead as the competition progressed.

Results showed that bands in positions two to five were unchanged from the Semi finals.
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Web Posted - Friday March 4, 2011
When Steel Talks

Arima Golden Symphony - 2011 Small Conventional Band Panorama Champions
 

Trinidad & Tobago - Last evening’s event at the Larry Gomes Stadium Car Par, Arima, also featured the finalists in the Small Band category. Arima Golden Symphony placed first taking home the Challenge Trophy and $500,000.

Adjudicators were Hugh Borde, Junior Howell, Alea Nicholson, Dr. Jeanine Remy, Ian Anthony and Frank Stanisclaus for Single Pans while Sherry Ann Saunders, Martin Albino, Tommy Crichlow, Michelle Dowrich, Marcelline Peters and Kenrick Noel did the honors in the Small Conventional category.
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Web Posted - Friday March 4, 2011
Trinidad & Tobago Newsday

Players lost their rhythm
 

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - The fate of nine-time Panorama champion bp Renegades rests in the hands of a High Court judge who will today decide on whether the Charlotte Street-based band will be included at the National Panorama finals at the Queen’s Park Savannah, Port-of-Spain, tomorrow.

Justice Maureen Rajnauth-Lee is presiding over the matter, which will be heard today.

The steel orchestra yesterday filed an injunction at the Port-of-Spain High Court, for breach of contract, specific performance and judicial review, seeking an order restraining Pan Trinbago from proceeding with the finals for the large band conventional category tomorrow as well as a declaration that they be included in the finals, among other reliefs.

Renegades placed 13th with its selection “How We Coming” with 243 points and complained that the music played by the DJ at the North Stand caused band members to “lose rhythm,” during its performance two Sundays ago. Twelve large bands perform at the finals.

Renegades is contending that Pan Trinbago failed to ensure that any competing sounds were silenced or sufficiently silenced before or while the orchestra was performing.
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Web Posted - Thursday March 3, 2011
When Steel Talks

Renegades Steel Orchestra files an injunction against Pan Trinbago
 

Trinidad & Tobago

video platformvideo managementvideo solutionsvideo player

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Web Posted - Thursday March 3, 2011
When Steel Talks

Renegades Steel Orchestra files an injunction against Pan Trinbago over Semi Finals failure to ensure fair performance conditions

Renegades Steel Orchestra files an injunction against Pan Trinbago over Semi Finals failure to ensure fair performance conditions
by Leon Chandler
 

Global - As a Renegades player I have, with great restraint up until now, avoided any comment on this issue as to avoid any appearance or representation of bias.

I think I now need to step in if for no other reason that clarification. Renegades has no issue with being left out of the finals if it was based on the judges' interpretation and subsequent location of points only, however, these are not the grounds for which we have lodged our initial complaints to Pan Trinbago and now, after that body has delayed us for almost a week, our subsequent action in the High Court.
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Web Posted - Thursday March 3, 2011
When Steel Talks

My Take on Panorama 2011
by Leon Thomas
 

Leon ThomasGlobal - There is a lot of good music being played. Bands in the Small and Medium category are making extreme and positive strides. However, the Large Bands have maintained their descent towards mediocrity. This year, like years before, everything seems to be scripted. Panorama is not earned anymore. Back in the day, Panorama had some amazing musical arrangements. Arrangers seemed to challenge themselves to produce the best with every try. Do you remember Pandemonium’s Sugar for Pan or Rebecca and In My House by Desperadoes all arranged by Clive Bradley? What about Woman is Boss by Phase II (Boogsie), Somebody by Renegades (Jit), Pan By Storm by Fonclaire (Professor)? These are all great arrangements, music that can stand up as giants to the best of them now. The non-musician could have found understanding in an arrangement and would have been able to whistle or sing a part of the song, or the entire piece. Today’s arrangements just seem to fly over the top of our heads.
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Web Posted - Wednesday March 2, 2011
When Steel Talks

Katzenjammers and Hope Pan Groovers rule Tobago Panorama for 2011 - Results!
 

Katzenjammers Steel Orchestra on stage in 2008Tobago, W.I. - For those steelband music lovers who could not make it to the beautiful island of Tobago in the Caribbean, a special musical experience was provided to the global steelpan community as they were treated to a live broadcast of the Tobago Panorama last night via Radio Tambrin over the internet. Five Single-pan bands and ten conventional steel orchestras battled for steelband music supremacy at the annual Tobago panorama - the pinnacle of Pan performances for many in Tobago’s steelband music community. Each of the island’s conventional steel orchestras were determined to take home the first prize of TT $100,000 (just over USD $16,000). And at the end, there could be only one: Katzenjammers Steel Orchestra won the prize purse in the conventional category, and Hope Pan Groovers triumphed over their fellow Single-pan bands.
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Web Posted - Wednesday March 2, 2011
When Steel Talks

Police intimidation of Southern Marines Steel band Foundation in Trinidad & Tobago - the “Home of Pan”?
 

Trinidad, W.I. - Is the music community being targeted for playing their National Instrument? Michael Joseph, president of Southern Marines Steel band Foundation says that on the night of March 1st, 2011 the Trinidad and Tobago Police - in the person of officer Cupid and another officer, turned up at their panyard, and intimidated their membership during practice for the National Panorama competition - featuring their National Instrument, the Steel Pan!

“When five or more Police Officers in a district start to warn and threaten you over your action, isn’t it time for concern? But what are we doing? Playing the National Instrument; preparing to represent our area in the National Panorama, which we believe to be something worthy of compliments.”
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Web Posted - Wednesday March 2, 2011
The Pacer

UTM Percussion Ensemble enlightens and informs audience
‘Roots and Rhythm’ takes listeners on world tour of beats and sounds
 

Several students from the ensemble play lead pan drums during the performanceTennessee, USA - The UTM Percussion Ensemble's "Roots and Rhythm" performance was included this year in the university's annual Civil Rights Conference for the first time, and, through Dr. Julie Hill's lecture and the music that was played, it certainly felt like it belonged there.

"It is something we do every year, but this is the first time it has been a part of the Civil Rights Conference. We have just made it a part of Black History Month in the past," Hill said.

....The Ensemble used a steel band orchestra to play through the different beats and rhythms, which Hill helped the audience become familiar with by equating them to other more common instruments.

"I try to relate unusual instrument groups to groups most of the audience is already comfortable with so the terms don't seem so foreign. In our case, a steel band orchestra can be likened to a concert band, orchestra, or even a choir.
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Web Posted - Wednesday March 2, 2011
When Steel Talks

Small, Medium & Large Steel Orchestras - Finals: Order of Appearance - Trinidad & Tobago Panorama 2011
 

Global - This year eleven bands instead of ten, in the small steel orchestra category, moved on to the Panorama Finals because of two “tied” positions coming out of the semi-finals.  These bands join the sixteen Single Pan Bands in their Final night competition on Thursday February 3 in Arima, Trinidad.

And on Carnival Saturday night, it’s the turn of the Medium and Large Steel orchestras as they take the stage at the Queen’s Park Savannah.  Arranger for Trinidad All Stars, Leon “Smooth” Edwards, pictured above, pulled number one at the official draw for playing positions of the Large bands.  Pan Elders will start things off in the Medium category.
complete Order of Appearance


Web Posted - Wednesday March 2, 2011
PetoskeyNews.com

Petoskey Steel Drum Band to perform in New Orleans
 

Petoskey High School Steel OrchestraMichigan, USA - The Petoskey High School Steel Drum Band is about to participate in one of the largest parties in the United States.

On Friday, 21 students and 12 chaperones will begin their journey to New Orleans for Mardi Gras.

While there, the group will perform in three parades, including: the Endymion, which begins at 4:15 p.m. on Saturday; the Bacchus, which begins at 5:15 p.m. on Sunday; and the Orpheus, which starts at 6 p.m. on Monday.

For more than four hours at a time, on their newly renovated, double-decker trailer, the students will be performing "Jump in the Line," "Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da," "Do Wah Diddy Diddy" and "Brown Eyed Girl," among other hits.

"We don't do anything too sophisticated -- it's just party music," said Barry Bennett, director of the steel drum band.

According to Bennett, this is the band's fifth time performing at the event since 2001.

"The first time we were asked to come to Mardi Gras, we didn't know what we were getting ourselves into," he said. "But it was just a riot!
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Web Posted - Tuesday March 1, 2011
When Steel Talks

Single Pan in the Finals: Order of Appearance - Trinidad & Tobago Panorama 2011
 

Merrytones Steel Orchestra on stage for the 2006 Panorama finalsGlobal - It’s showtime for twenty-seven steelbands as the National Panorama Small & Single Pan Bands Finals take centre stage on Thursday February 3 at the Larry Gomes Stadium Car Park, Arima in East Trinidad at 7:00 pm.

....First band in the Single Pan category on stage will be United Sounds while Old Tech Steel Orchestra will kick off the Small Steel Orchestra competition.
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Web Posted - Tuesday March 1, 2011
When Steel Talks

An Opportunity Missed - Junior Panorama 2011

by Mark Loquan
 

El Dorado Combined Steel Orchestra at the 2006 Junior PanoramaGlobal - ....One event in particular if I was in Trinidad, that I would be sure to attend, would have been the Junior Panorama Finals event.

....We had a great opportunity on February 27, 2011 to shine the light on the National Junior Panorama, an event which has demonstrated amazing skills and creativity by the young players and upcoming arrangers.

....Instead my spirit was very saddened to see very little or no news in the local papers on line, and therefore on the internet as well. One could not hear or see anything on line as well. It is not that I am saddened because I could not hear or see anything as an avid pan enthusiast.
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Web Posted - Tuesday March 1, 2011
When Steel Talks

Steelpan Music Composer and Panorama Arranger Amrit Samaroo is doing just "PHIne"
 

Amrit Samaroo on the PHI Global - Amrit Samaroo was born and raised into a musical family being the son of renowned arranger, Jit Samaroo. He started playing steelpan at the age of six with Samaroo Youth Steel Orchestra which existed for approximately two years. During Amrit’s formative years as a musician, he won first place at San Fest and the School’s Music Festival in 1992 and 1999 respectively. In addition to having been raised in a musical family, Amrit has received formal musical training, having completed an Associate Degree in Performing Arts from COSTAATT (The College of Science, Technology and Applied Arts of Trinidad and Tobago), and a Bachelor of Arts in Musical Arts from the University of the West Indies.

Although Amrit enjoyed success as a solo musician in his early days, his passion is arranging. He believes his dad inspired him to be an arranger, and arranging allows him to express himself more freely through a band. For Trinidad and Tobago Panorama 2011, Amrit had a full quota of steel orchestras for which he arranged. The bands are Trinidad Nostalgic (single pan), Nutones (small), Melodians (medium) and Our Boys (large). He arranged two of his original compositions for 2011, Showdown and T.K.O. for Melodians and Our Boys respectively.
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Some of the most important, controversial, thought-provoking and enlightening discussions on the steelpan instrument, music and culture worldwide, have taken place over the years on the When Steel Talks “Message board.”  Considered by many to be a lightening-rod for change in the steelpan music community, the WST message board  has provided a means unlike any for steelpan enthusiasts to share information and communicate ideas.

Windows MSN Groups has informed us that they are shutting down their groups service as of February 21, 2009.  You can now find the When Steel Talks Group at whensteeltalks.ning.com/forum 
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When Steel TalksWhen Steel Talks has set up a group on Facebook where we can post more steelpan pictures, videos and events. We would like to add you as a fan so you can expand your steelpan music experience. First, you need to join Facebook! Once you join, you can also create your own profile.

 

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