When Steel Talks

Quick Listen - Tunes for Panorama and Carnival 2014
You Tube Short Takes

RESULTS for the Trinidad & Tobago 2014 Panorama
 

Global - Final results and those from the qualifying rounds, of respective categories in competition in the 2014 Trinidad and Tobago Panorama are all in! Get the stats from the preliminaries, semifinals and finals for all the conventional steel orchestras of Trinidad & Tobago which competed in the 2014 Panorama season. 
click for full results

Web Posted - Monday March 31, 2014
When Steel Talks

Meet Lisa Samuel of Brooklyn, New York, USA

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

New York, USA - There is so much to say. She is the ultimate Pan-mom. A lifelong affiliate of the New York powerhouse Sonatas Steel Orchestra, she has three sons, also playing the steelpan instruments. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks, administrator, former player, supporter and mom - Lisa Samuel of Brooklyn, New York - shares on her joys, pains, concerns and realities of Pan in her life.
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Web Posted - Monday March 31, 2014
Bates News

Maine, USA - Student musical ensembles at Bates mark the end of the winter semester with six concerts in five days.  All but the gamelan concert take place in the Olin Arts Center Concert Hall, 75 Russell St.

The Bates Gamelan Ensemble offers an end-of-term program, featuring traditional music from Central Java and traditional and contemporary music for the West Javanese gamelan degung...

....Erica Butler directs the Bates Steel Pan Orchestra at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 3.

....All these concerts are open to the public at no charge, but tickets are required for the jazz and steel pan events...

....Lord Obstinate’s “Got a Little Something” and arrangements by Maine’s well-known Chase family, of Flash in the Pan steel band fame, are featured in the steel pan concert.
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Web Posted - Monday March 31, 2014
When Steel Talks

Meet Keina Calliste of Trinidad and Tobago

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Trinidad and Tobago, W.I. - She has an acute understanding of the challenges that face the steelpan art form in Trinidad and Tobago if it is to remain relevant and at the forefront of the global steelpan movement. Moreover, she believes it is time for ‘Innovative Strategic Thinkers.’ In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - player, administrator and planner Keina Calliste of Skiffle Steel Orchestra shares her thoughts on some critical issues facing pan in Trinidad and Tobago.
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Web Posted - Monday March 31, 2014
When Steel Talks

Meet Danielle Edinboro of Brooklyn, New York, USA

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

New York, USA - She says accent the positives. “We just all have to support each other and leave the jaded pessimist views alone and adopt an effective one.” Well mature beyond her years - Danielle Edinboro represents the next generations of panists in New York. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks, Danielle Edinboro of Brooklyn, USA speaks on her introduction to the steelpan art form, the challenge and advancing forward.
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Web Posted - Sunday March 30, 2014
Trinidad & Tobago Guardian

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - A performance by Witco Desperadoes ended before it started on Saturday. Just before 9 pm, moments before the band was scheduled to perform at the 25^th anniversary celebration of Smokey & Bunty, a car mounted the pavement and ploughed through the band, narrowly missing patrons seated along the Western Main Road establishment in St James.

....A number of the pan players escaped serious injury, with four reportedly going to hospital to treat cuts and abrasions. Many of the band’s instruments were destroyed before the car came to a stop at the corner of Dengue Street and Western Main Road. 
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Web Posted - Sunday March 30, 2014
When Steel Talks

Meet Christine Pigott of Brooklyn, New York, USA

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

New York, USA - Her stated goal is to “create shows and documentaries that reveal issues, inspire action, and encourage self-reflection.” This young film director, panist and intellectual with a clear vision, is indeed focused and well on the road to achieving her objectives. Throughout her travels the steelpan instrument will always be in the mix - hence the name of her production company - “Purple Steel.” In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks, Fulbright scholar Christine Pigott of Brooklyn, New York, shares on her expedition with two of her life’s passions - Pan and film.
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Web Posted - Saturday March 29, 2014
When Steel Talks

New York, USA -  “An unseasonably cold March Sunday evening was put on notice that the sounds of steel—and not the chilly weather—would hold court for a couple hours and dictate exactly what would warm the hearts of patrons who happened to be in the right place at the right time. Where and Why? D’Avenue, a snug little nook set back on Flatbush Avenue in Brooklyn, New York. And for the occasion of “Oil and Music” hosted by New York’s Pantonic Steel Orchestra. In the spotlight was one of Brooklyn’s finest sons in the steelpan art form on pan, Kareem Thompson, in company with his family amalgamation of K.I.T. Caribbean Connection.

....As usual, pan folk were more than pleased for the opportunity to hang out together with the prospect of an undoubtedly fine session in steel coming up a little later on the music menu. 
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Web Posted - Saturday March 29, 2014
When Steel Talks

Meet Natasha Joseph of Trinidad and Tobago

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Trinidad and Tobago, W.I. - No last name is needed for instant recognition in the world of Pan for “Natasha.” She is as equally humble as she is immensely talented. Destined for greatness - she is a musical prodigy who has the respect of her peers. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - educator, performer, arranger, composer and drill-master Natasha Joseph provides insight into her expectations and experiences as an elite panist in Trinidad and Tobago.
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Web Posted - Saturday March 29, 2014
Herts and Essex Observer

Hertfordshire, England - It was carnival time at Furneux Pelham Primary with 25 children from Mozart class pounding out the musical beat at a steel pan workshop.

The seven to nine-year-olds from Years 3 and 4 enjoyed their morning working with the Day-O-Drum team and through the music and their enthusiasm brought the sounds of sunny Saint Lucia and the vibrant Caribbean to the life on a chilly March day in Britain.

“They were learning some carnival songs and actions as well going on a pirate adventure and learning songs along the way,” said their teacher Vicky Wittich.
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Web Posted - Thursday March 27, 2014
When Steel Talks

Meet Amanda Lawrence of Dominica

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Dominica, W.I. - From the Caribbean island of Dominica to the Ivy League walls of Princeton University, the pan has always been by her side. It is simply her joy. Her romance with the pan and pan culture has had a lasting global impact on those she meets on the roads she’s travelled, and those who find the steelpan “strange, amazing and beautiful." In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks, Amanda Lawrence of Dominica shares how her life revolves around the steelpan.
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Web Posted - Thursday March 27, 2014
When Steel Talks

Illinois, USA -  Northern Illinois University Steelband, under the direction of Liam Teague and Cliff Alexis, presents its Spring 2014 concert on Sunday April 13^th 2014, at 3:00 p.m. (CST) in the Boutell Memorial Concert Hall, NIU School of Music, DeKalb, Illinois.

The event will commemorate the ensemble’s 40^th year of existence and will be a celebration of the past, present and future.

The special guest artiste will be Panamanian violinist Graciela “Chelín” Núñez, one of Panama City’s most active performers.
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Web Posted - Wednesday March 26, 2014
When Steel Talks

Meet Miranda Martin of Trinidad and Tobago

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - Miranda has traveled the world over as a member of the legendary Desperadoes Steel Orchestra. She embodies all the characteristics of a great panist - talent, intellect, discipline, and sacrifice. She is most proud of the lives she has touched through her years of playing pan. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks, Miranda Martin of Trinidad and Tobago shares how the steelpan instrument has impacted her life.
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Web Posted - Tuesday March 25, 2014
Richland Chronicle

Texas, USA - A tasty touch of Trinidad paid a thumping visit to Richland’s Fannin Hall during the noon hour on Tuesday, March 18.

More than a dozen talented percussionists pounded their way through a three-set program of delightful pieces featuring steel, snare and bongo drums, plus miramba, xylophone, synth-bass and vibraphone with some electric guitar thrown in just to keep the decibels at a memorable level. 

....The second and third sets were presented by the dozen or more players who make up the Richland Steel Band.
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Web Posted - Tuesday March 25, 2014
Trinidad and Tobago Newsday

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - Edwin Pouchet, leader and arranger for PCS Nitrogen Silver Stars Steel Orchestra, who died on Saturday of a heart attack at West Shore Medical Complex in Cocorite, after ailing for some time, will be laid to rest at the Lapeyrouse Cemetery on Friday, following his funeral service at the Assumption Church in Maraval.

Pouchet 57, arranged Silver Stars’ two National Panorama victories, but was unable to arrange for the band this year. Instead the band had US-based musician Liam Teague arrange for them, while the other band for which Pouchet arranged, Katzenjammers of Tobago, looked to Len “Boogsie” Sharpe to take over arranging for the band last year, after Pouchet fell ill at their panyard in 2012.
read more

Web Posted - Tuesday March 25, 2014
Trinidad Exoress Newspapers

Pioneer launches new book


 

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - A historical look at the pan with a focus on the contribution of a small village to its evolution has been documented. The meaningful and relevant documentation in the form of a book titled, Panriga — Tacarigua’s Contribution to the Evolution of the Steelband Phenomenon in Trinidad and Tobago written by Kenrick P Thomas, was recently launched at the National Library and Information System Authority (Nalis). The book, a revised version (the original was first launched in 1999) tells the story of the development of pan in an in-depth account of Tacarigua’s role in the pan landscape of Trinidad and Tobago.

Thomas, a pan pioneer in his own right has been involved in all aspects of the pan spectrum. The former executive member of the national steelband body then known as the National Association of Trinidad and Tobago Steelbandsmen (NATTS), the forerunner to today’s Pan Trinbago, introduced the pan stands for the tenor pans by taking them off the laps of the players during the semifinals of the music festival held at Roxy Theatre in 1956.
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Web Posted - Tuesday March 25, 2014
When Steel Talks

Meet Yuko Asada of Illinois, USA

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Illinois, USA - She is an old school triple threat like Anthony Williams, Ellie Mannette and Neville Jules who is unapologetically enchanted with the beauty, spirit and power of steelpan instrument and art form. She is tuner, performer, arranger, educator and director. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks, Yuko Asada shares her life's journey with steelpan as her compass.
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Web Posted - Tuesday March 25, 2014
Trinidad and Tobago Guardian

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - It is a month since this year’s Carnival weekend yet still excitement continues in the steelband world. Pan Trinbago has a lot of events planned for the remainder of this year and 2015, with the most ambitious being the staging of the first-ever international Panorama contest next year.

Pan Trinbago launched the logo for the International Conference and Panorama (ICP) last Wednesday at the National Academy for the Performing Arts (Napa), Port-of-Spain. Heading the list of dignitaries at the formal function were President Anthony Carmona; Arts and Multiculturalism Minister Dr Lincoln Douglas.....

....Performers at Napa on Wednesday night included 2014 National Panorama champion Petrotrin Phase II Pan Groove, Schools Panorama winner QRC/Providence, Earl Brooks and calypsonian Eunice Peters singing Anthem for Pan.
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Web Posted - Monday March 24, 2014
Kaieteur News Online

Guyana, SA - Decked out in sleek red shirts, black waistcoats and jeans with a white tie to crown it off, the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI) Buxton Pride Steel Orchestra once again captivated its audience at a special ceremony yesterday to celebrate its success at the recent Mashramani Steel Pan Competition.

Yesterday at the Tipperary Hall, in Buxton, the members of the steel orchestra were given special donations by the government to further support their love for sweet pan music.

....While the Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Ms. Jennifer Webster was very impressed, she urged the students to extend the same love and dedication they exude for steel pan music to their academic aspirations as well.
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Web Posted - Monday March 24, 2014
When Steel Talks

Meet Xiaotong Zou of China

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

China - A chance meeting has developed into an intense love affair with the steelpan instrument, art form and culture. As a member of Planet Pan of Maine and Exodus Steel Orchestra of Trinidad, Xiaotong has experienced the magnificence of Pan and Panorama. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks, Xiaotong Zou of China shares how the steelpan instrument has impacted her life.
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Web Posted - Sunday March 23, 2014
When Steel Talks

Meet Jenny Gilberg of the UK

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

United Kingdom - From Panorama player to music educator - she has experienced all aspects of the Pan up close and personal. Performer, arranger, and now director - the  steelpan instrument is in her blood. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks, Jenny Gilberg of New Castle upon Tyne, UK shares how the steelpan instrument has impacted her life.
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Web Posted - Sunday March 23, 2014
When Steel Talks

Global -  “Edwin grew up in pan. His brother, Junior, was the arranger of a steel band that practiced for hours when preparing for a music festival or Carnival in the backyard of his home, at 195 Western Main Road, Cocorite. He was so fascinated with the music that after the players left, he would take up the pan sticks and try to pick out the melodies he had heard. He credits his mother whose love for the steel band inspired him, but it was not until 1970 with his mother’s assistance, that he started to sneak out to practice with the Silver Stars. History records that year Desperadoes came first playing Kitchener’s Margie. Starlift placed second with Sparrow’s Pan man. Silver Stars tied with Invaders for third. Invaders played Margie and Silver Stars played Simple Calypso by Blakie.

In 1974, Junior received a contract from Bermuda and later Disney World. This meant that a new arranger would be needed for the Silver Stars. A good choice was Edwin but the transition from Junior Pouchet to Edwin Pouchet was a very traumatic experience. The band’s players did not want any other arranger, choosing instead to play the same tunes until Junior returned to Trinidad for the Carnival. Many left until the band went into a period of dormancy around 1976.
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Web Posted - Saturday March 22, 2014
Trinidad and Tobago Newsday

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - Reigning Panorama champion Phase II Pan Groove has agreed to enter mediation with the Port-of-Spain City Corporation as the two battle over the steelband’s Hamilton Street, Woodbrook, home.

The top steelband is defending attempts by the Port-of-Spain City Corporation to evict them from the premises to make way for the completion of the One Woodbrook Place Project, owned by Home Construction Limited.

....Phase II has called Hamilton Street home for more than three decades and they claim the panyard is a piece of history, and they had certain rights because of their possession of the property.

Phase II has resisted the transfer, deeming the Foreshore site out of the way, and a health threat.
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Web Posted - Thursday March 20, 2014
When Steel Talks

Global -  Members of Xalapa Steel Band of México were in Trinidad for the early part of the 2014 Panorama season, and took part in the preliminaries with Valley Harps Steel Orchestra led by Michelle Huggins-Watts. Eight members, six of them players, arrived in Trinidad on January 25. The remaining twosome from Xalapa were along on the visit for company, and to assist generally.

Though they very much enjoyed their overall time spent in Trinidad, because of the dates they would have to miss the semifinals and finals when Valley Harps moved forward. The group returned to Mexico February 9, but was exuberant over its experience. “We hope to go back again the next year!” says Xalapa band director and founder Eduardo “Lalo” Téllez. Téllez is a Percussion Professor in the Superior Institute of Music in Veracruz, Mexico and founded Xalapa Steel Band, the first in the country.
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Web Posted - Thursday March 20, 2014
Gazettes.com

California, USA ....With their hands moving fast, the advanced level steel drum artists were busy this week preparing for their biggest performance of the year. Next Wednesday, March 26, Cabrillo is hosting its annual Steel Drum Festival and for the first time will be playing with musicians from Stephens Middle School and California State University, Long Beach’s Steel Drum Orchestra.

Cabrillo and Stephens are the only schools in the district that offer students an opportunity to play steel drum, or steelpan.

....Cabrillo High School will host the Steel Drum Festival at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 26, at the school’s 560-seat auditorium. Joining the Cabrillo students for the first time will be musicians from Stephens Middle School and the circa-1987 California State University, Long Beach, Steel Drum Orchestra.
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Web Posted - Wednesday March 19, 2014
When Steel Talks

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. -  This year’s scintillating steel orchestra performances at the Trinidad & Tobago National Panorama Medium & Large Conventional Finals were captured “live” and are now available on DVD.

“Celebrating the Evolution of Pan - Panorama 2014” – The DVD, is a production of Pan Trinbago in collaboration with Advance Dynamics Home Entertainment which has already demonstrated its capability to deliver a high-end quality product.
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Web Posted - Wednesday March 19, 2014
Trinidad and Tobago Guardian

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - Grande Riviere has been chosen as the place to launch the 2014 series of Pan in De Countryside. The Pan Trinbago initiative to take the steelbands to far-flung areas of T&T continues, as the steelpan body showcases the national music instrument. The first in the series takes place in the rural village on the north coast at the Grande Riviere Recreation Ground, Toco, on March 29, from 3 pm.

A number of steel orchestras, including Super Novas, this year’s Panorama Small Band winner; Carib Woodbrook Playboyz, Sangre Grande Cordettes, Pan Steronettes, Southern Marines Steelband Foundation and City Sun Valley, will be the featured performers, according to a release from Pan Trinbago. 
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Web Posted - Wednesday March 19, 2014
When Steel Talks

Meet Josanne Francis of Trinidad and Tobago

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Trinidad and Tobago - Her story, her reality, her journey - A Pan story... In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks, Josanne Francis of Trinidad and Tobago—now an NIU graduate student—shares her fantastic journey with the steelpan instrument as her guide, wind and sail.
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Web Posted - Tuesday March 18, 2014
When Steel Talks

Meet Yuki Nakano of Japan

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Japan - Pan is in her blood. She has travel all over the world with the steelpan instrument as her passport. She is currently as student at (Northern Illinois University) NIU. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks, Yuki Nakano of Japan shares her worldly experiences and thoughts on the steelpan instrument and culture.
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Web Posted - Monday March 17, 2014
When Steel Talks

Meet Sky De Coteau of La Brea Nightingales - Trinidad and Tobago

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Trinidad & Tobago - She is a lady with a full plate. University student, section leader, organizer and of course panist for La Brea Nightingales Steel Orchestra... In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks, Sky De Coteau of Trinidad and Tobago shares her thoughts and visions for the steelpan instrument.
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Web Posted - Monday March 17, 2014
The Herald-Star

Ohio, USA - Plans are being made for the eighth-annual Ohio Valley Festival of Steel, an event shaping up to be another "pan marathon," according to Shelly Irvine, festival founder and coordinator.

The event will be held May 10 at Catholic Central High School with doors opening at 1:15 p.m. and continuing through 7:20 p.m., the scheduled time for a mass band performance and the presentation of plaques.

....The Ohio Valley Festival of Steel is an annual event for steel drum bands to share their current musical program in a single-day festival setting, according to Shelly Irvine, festival founder and coordinator.
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Web Posted - Sunday March 16, 2014
Trinidad and Tobago Guardian

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. -  Hailed as the “Paganini of the Steelpan,” 40-year-old Liam Teague currently serves as the head of Steelpan Studies and associate professor of Music at Northern Illinois University, and he co-directs the NIU Steelband. He has received many awards, including the Humming Bird Award (Silver) for “loyal and devoted service,” and won a number of notable competitions such as the T&T National Steelband Festival Solo Championship and the Saint Louis Symphony Volunteers Association Young Artiste Competition.

Teague has collaborated with such prominent musicians as Paquito D’Rivera, Dave Samuels, Zakir Hussain, and Evelyn Glennie. As a performer and clinician, Teague has given presentations at several Percussive Arts Society International Conventions (Pasic) and at many educational institutions throughout the world.
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Web Posted - Saturday March 15, 2014
When Steel Talks

Meet Ninomiya Chihiro of Japan

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Japan - It was love at first sight or fate as she calls it. She is a player for Panland Steel Orchestra in Japan and World Champion Phase II Pan Groove of Trinidad and Tobago. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks, Ninomiya Chihiro of Japan, shares how the steelpan instrument has impacted her life and her love for Phase II Pan Groove.
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Web Posted - Saturday March 15, 2014
When Steel Talks

Pulling no Punches - Andy Narell, Arranger for birdsong Steel Orchestra, Speaks on the 2014 Panorama Season

An exclusive WST interview with Panorama arranger, recording and performing artist Andy Narell

Global - “...You ask if I want to win Panorama.  In its present form, I would have to say it doesn’t interest me at all.  I would however like to be able to play my music at the finals, and have always considered that a privilege  worth striving for.  Every year I’ve participated I’ve tried my best to get my band there, and it’s very disappointing to not be invited to the party...” Andy Narell.

Panorama arranger for birdsong Steel Orchestra Andy Narell shares his thoughts and speaks candidly about the recently-concluded 2014 Trinidad and Tobago National Panorama in an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks. The annual Trinidad & Tobago Panorama is the world’s premiere tuned percussion competition.
click for interview

Web Posted - Friday March 14, 2014
uakron.edu

Ohio, USA -  Caribbean, classical and a little John Lennon will mix musically spring when The University of Akron Steel Drum Band performs Saturday, April 5, 8 p.m., at E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall, 198 Hill St., on the UA campus.

A big-screen "pan cam" — a popular feature of the band's annual spring concerts — will put the audience in the middle of the vibrant sights and sounds. This year’s guest artist is Khan Cordice, a steel pan musician, arranger and composer from Antigua.
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Web Posted - Friday March 14, 2014
When Steel Talks

Meet Candice Andrews-Brumant of Renegades Steel Orchestra - Trinidad & Tobago

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Trinidad & Tobago- She is one of a select few panists where only a ‘first name’ is needed for instant recognition, anywhere in the world of Pan. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks, Candice Andrews-Brumant, captain of the world-renowned Renegades Steel Orchestra speaks on her unbridled passion for Pan, Renegades and dreams for the steelpan movement.
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Web Posted - Thursday March 13, 2014
Hickory Daily Record

North Carolina, USA - The Hiddenite Center announced the return of Appalachian State University's Steely Pan Steel Drum Band, which will perform a dinner theater concert on Friday, April 4.

The public concert will be at the Hiddenite Center’s Educational Complex, 70 Hiddenite Church Road, beginning at 6:30 p.m.

....The concert will mark the final Hiddenite performance for Scott Meister, founder and director of Steely Pan. Meister will retire from his position as faculty professor and Sharpe Chair of Fine and Applied Arts at ASU this summer. 
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Web Posted - Thursday March 13, 2014
When Steel Talks

by Les Slater

Global - In the aftermath of the 2014 Carnival celebration, a number of areas of discontent have prompted negative comment. This only further underscored that we’ve been in the throes of what I have chosen to call an across-the-board “dumbing down” of our cultural values. Trinidad and Tobago’s greatest resource, contrary to what some may believe, is its extraordinarily rich culture. Any ill-advised trend toward weakening that unique cultural foundation is one whopper of a no-brainer... Les Slater
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Web Posted - Thursday March 13, 2014
When Steel Talks

Meet Julie Williams of Exodus Steel Orchestra - Trinidad & Tobago

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Trinidad & Tobago- From child to adult, the steelpan instrument has been a constant love and comrade. Her love for the instrument is profound. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks, Julie Williams of Exodus Steel Orchestra Trinidad and Tobago, shares her insight, experiences and expectations for the steelpan art form.
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When Steel Talks

Quick Listen - Tunes for Panorama and Carnival 2014
You Tube Short Takes

Web Posted - Tuesday March 11, 2014
When Steel Talks

by Bukka Rennie

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - From the 1930’s under the leadership of people like “Sagiator” Drayton to Eric Stowe, “Big-Head” Hamilton Thomas, Prince Batson and Neville Jules, the great Trinidad All Stars has remained firmly committed to the Carnival Arts. This band from Hell Yard could not do otherwise, it is their CORE VALUE, their raison d’etre, the reason to be.

....Beresford Hunte, the present Captain is never tired of saying to reporters that “All Stars is not a Panorama band, All Stars is more than that, much more…”
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Web Posted - Monday March 10, 2014
Trinidad & Tobago Newsday

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - Students of St Joseph’s Convent (PoS) and St Mary’s College formed a combined band (Symphony of the Saints) to participate in the 2014 edition of the Junior Panorama competition.

In the preliminary round of the competition the band placed seventh out of 21 bands in the Secondary Schools category with 231 points, some 34 points behind the first-placed band. The final of the competition took place five days later as the band continued its preparation, this time under the guidance of its arranger, Mia Gormandy, a graduate of St Joseph’s Convent who is studying for her doctorate in Music in Florida.
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Web Posted - Monday March 10, 2014
Trinidad & Tobago Newsday

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - Champions of Carnival 2014 shined in the last lap event of the season in the Champs of Steel Plus concert on Saturday evening at the Queen’s Park Savannah, Port-of-Spain.

Leading the cast of champions at the show was the eight steelband champions in the various Panorama Finals categories; Petrotrin Phase II Pan Groove, Pan Elders, Super Novas, San Juan East Side Symphony and Pan Jammers, Juniors bP Renegades, Providence/QRC and St Paul’s Anglican School.
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Web Posted - Friday March 7, 2014
Trinidad & Tobago Guardian

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - A decision by the National Carnival Bands Association’s (NCBA) judges to deduct points from a reported 25 large bands for failing to start at their first judging point in Woodbrook, is threatening to cast a shadow over Neal and Massy Trinidad All Stars’ Band of the Year victory. In fact, the decision may have to be rescinded, as several affected bands yesterday signalled their intention to take the matter to court if the NCBA does not provide them with their scoresheets, nullify the decision and recount the scores.

Trinidad All Stars was yesterday named the NCBA’s Band of the Year winner for its presentation of Sailors on Shore Leave at a Tropical Fiesta. The band...scored 2,365 points, beating Paparrazi Carnival’s Centerstage (2,048) and Legacy’s Nature’s Touch (1,976) into second and third respectively. The result also marked the first time in decades a traditional steelband had won the large band mas category.
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Web Posted - Friday March 7, 2014
Trinidad Express Newspapers

All Stars captain on Band of the Year results:
 

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. -  Neal and Massy Trinidad All Stars Steel Orchestra’s captain Be¬¬resford Hunte said yesterday if bandleaders violate the NCBA rules, then they must pay a penalty.

In a telephone interview, he added: “They cannot blame me. I was not judging. I did not have the show. I followed the rules from beginning to end. We don’t play mas to make a profit. Every single year, for about 50-plus years, we have been playing traditional sailor mas. I used to play mas. Long time ago, pan accompanied masqueraders on the road.”

Hunte made reference to its second place in the National Panorama championships to Petrotrin Phase II Pan Groove, led by Len “Boogsie” Sharpe.
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Web Posted - Friday March 7, 2014
Trinidad Express Newspapers

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - The possibility exists that Trinidad All Stars Steel Orchestra did not win the Band of the Year title on merit but based on penalties and the disqualification of other competing bands.

This claim was made yesterday by president of the Trinidad and Tobago Carnival Bandleaders’ Association (TTCBA) Gerard Weekes.

In a telephone interview, Weekes said: “I have no problem with All Stars winning Band of the Year. I am saying the possibility of them winning it was not based on merit. It was based on penalties and disqualification of other competing bands.

“One of the things that stood out was All Stars was able to win the Creative category ahead of many bands who had much greater creativity. They had sailor caps and epaulettes. It won the Most Creative Category and went on to win Band of the Year.”
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Web Posted - Friday March 7, 2014
Trinidad & Tobago Guardian

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - Mas and steelband history was made this year in the Band of the Year competition, staged by the National Carnival Bands Association (NCBA), when a steelband won the coveted title for the second time since the competition was inaugurated in 1963.

When the NCBA posted its official results on Wednesday night on its Web site, it revealed that Neal & Massy Trinidad All Stars’ presentation titled Sailors Ashore at a Tropical Fiesta topped the competition.

Exactly 50 years ago, another steelband, Junior Pouchet’s Silver Stars teamed up with Russell Charter to produce the winning Gulliver’s Travels. Costumes for that presentation were designed by artist Pat Chu Foon. Gulliver’s Travel’s also copped the Band of the People’s Choice Award. The 1963 runners-up to Charter and Silver Stars were Cito Velasquez (Splendour of the East) and Desperadoes (Land of the Zulus), respectively.
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Web Posted - Thursday March 6, 2014
Trinidad Express Newspapers

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - “I felt happy. Exceptionally hap­py!”

Captain of Neal and Massy Trinidad All Stars Steel Orchestra Beresford Hunte made this comment in the aftermath of the band’s victory in the Large Band category of the National Carnival Bands’ Association’s (NCBA) 2014 Parade of the Bands competition.

The results were released yesterday.

Hunte, former captain Neville Jules, arranger Leon “Smooth” Edwards, drillmaster Nigel Williams and die-hard supporters like Cecil “Jimo” Jones were in a celebratory mood at the band’s headquarters on Duke Street, Port of Spain, yesterday.

....The theme of All Stars’ presentation was Sailors On Shore Leave At A Tropical Fiesta. The band scored 2,365 points.
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Web Posted - Thursday March 6, 2014
When Steel Talks

(An open letter to Andy Narell)

Global - Journalist, steelpan historian and film director Dalton Narine pens an open letter to birdsong steel orchestra arranger Andy Narell (right), proffering his frank sentiments regarding Narell’s 2014 arrangement of We Kinda Music as performed by birdsong for the Trinidad & Tobago Panorama season. Narell’s response to the letter is also included.
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Web Posted - Thursday March 6, 2014
When Steel Talks

Global - Even as Lord Kitchener sang “The Carnival Is Over,” “Champs of Steel Plus gives steelpan music and culture lovers one final chance to relive the memories of the recently-concluded Carnival celebrations.

The post-Carnival event produced by Pan Trinbago and which features, in part, most of the winners and champions of the major competitions - is held annually on the Saturday after Carnival. This year’s event takes place on Saturday 8^th March at the Queen’s Park Savannah, Port-of-Spain, Trinidad. Showtime time is 8:00 p.m.
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Web Posted - Thursday March 6, 2014
Trinidad Express Newspapers

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. -  Main man and arranger of Phase II Pan Groove Len “Boogsie” Sharpe was more than gracious in victory at the 2014 Panorama. He lavished praise and thanks on Phase II’s players, on sponsors, vocalist and flag-waver Destra Garcia, arranger Leston Paul, lyricist Nigel Rojas and Gary Aboud for decorations.

But the “Boogsie” message with more lingering impact must be his pledge to form a “youth band”.

The celebrated panman welcomed young people from everywhere to “come to the yard and register”. What this inspired and inspiring idea does, assuming it can be properly implemented, is to ensure “continuation”.
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Web Posted - Wednesday March 5, 2014
Trinidad Express Newspapers

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - Panorama winner Petrotrin Phase II Pan Groove will also receive a trip to Nigeria later this year as a part of its prize. This, in addition to the $1 million first prize.

The trip is sponsored by the Chrome Group, a leading multibillion dollar conglomerate based in Abuja, Nigeria which specialises in oil and gas and supporting interest in bio-fuels and petroleum products trading, logistics and dredging business.

....The relationship with Chrome started last year after Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan visited Trinidad in 2012. Pan Trinbago’s president Keith Diaz met with him and told him Pan Trinbago was seeking sponsorship and partnership for the pan movement as he wanted to showcase pan on the African continent.
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Web Posted - Tuesday March 4, 2014
When Steel Talks

Raffique Shah - journalist, nationalist, activist, columnist and cultural historian speaks on Pan in Trinidad and Tobago

Global - Seen that, done that, heard that... Indeed the name ‘Raffique Shah’ resonates loudly within and around all, aspects of Trinidad and Tobago life, culture and history... Mr. Shah brings a special knowledge-base to the subject of the steelpan instrument in Trinidad and Tobago both from a local and worldly perspective. Never afraid to speak to truth, meet Raffique Shah in a When Steel Talks exclusive interview.
click for interview

Web Posted - Friday March 4, 2014
Trinidad Express Newspapers

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. -  Musical Gems, an unsponsored, community based steelband, recently received a contribution of $10,000 from the Neal & Massy Foundation (The Foundation) towards the band’s recent Carnival 2014 activities.

Founded in 1996 and led by manager Brian Smart, the steelband forms part of the Paragon Sports and Cultural Club’s outreach programme to the communities of Cocorite, Diego Martin, St James and Cocorite.

For the last two years, Musical Gems has been making great strides in the steelpan industry, having entered the National Panorama Competition in the small band category for the first time in 2012, and having advanced to the semi-final round in 2013, Neal & Massy said in a statement.
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Web Posted - Monday March 3, 2014
Trinidad & Tobago Guardian

Stewards on alert for ‘extra’ players
 

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - Pan Trinbago vice-president Bryon Serrette yesterday apologised to the public for the late finish to the National Panorama finals, saying the lethargic flow among competing bands and efforts by the stage crew to monitor bands trying to flout the rules led to a 4 am end to the contest. Saturday’s steelpan music contest at the Queen’s Park Savannah in Port-of-Spain featured 21 contestants in two categories: medium and large conventional.

But Serrette said they had to be more diligent than usual after they picked up an illegal practice at last Thursday’s Single Pan Band and Small Conventional Bands finals at Skinner Park, San Fernando. He said the stage management team at that event found a finalist band in breach of the rules regarding the number of players. The band, which he did not name reportedly appeared in the small conventional class with a compliment of players over the maximum ceiling the rules allowed.
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Web Posted - Monday March 3, 2014
Trinidad and Tobago Newsday

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - After the semi-finals of the 2014 National Panorama competition two weeks ago, arranger for then top placed band Neal & Massy Trinidad All Stars, Leon “Smooth” Edwards, proclaimed there were four former champions within striking distance, boldly declaring, “Bring it on!”

And indeed, that’s what one of the “big guns” did at the Queen’s Park Savannah, Port-of-Spain on Saturday night, when ace arranger Len “Boogsie” Sharpe led Petrotrin Phase II Pan Groove to a second consecutive victory, and its sixth national title, beating All Stars into the runner-up spot by one point.
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Web Posted - Monday March 3, 2014
Trinidad and Tobago Newsday

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - For the first time in its 15-year-history, San Fernando-based outfit, Pan Elders, yesterday emerged as the champion steelband in the medium band category of the National Panorama Finals at the Queen’s Park Savannah in Port-of-Spain.

....For their success, members of the band, led by Hollister Smith, were presented with a huge replica cheque to the tune of $600,000, after scoring 284 points in the prestigious competition.

Peopled by the children and grandchildren of retired or deceased players, Pan Elders, which was established in 1999, comprises youngsters from mainly south Trinidad.
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Web Posted - Monday March 3, 2014
Trinidad and Tobago Newsday

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - Formed in 1999 by members of defunct steel bands in the city of San Fernando, the Carib Street-based band Pan Elders Steel Orchestra can now boast of having won two major titles in two separate categories in the National Panorama Finals.

In 2008, they won the small band title, and six years later, the Pan Elders having outgrown the small band category, has now won the medium band crown.

Last Saturday night, Pan Elders, playing a Duvonne Stewart arrangement of Lord Nelson’s “All ah we is one family” dethroned the 2013 champions NLCB Buccooneers which performed David Rudder’s “Madness”.

Pan Elders’ public relations officer, Lenny Williams, yesterday described the win as “fantastic”, saying the band was “feeling on top of the world”. 
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Web Posted - Saturday March 1, 2014
When Steel Talks

Global - The Trinidad and Tobago Chinese Steel Ensemble has been invited by the China Performing Arts Agency to participate in the ‘Meet in Beijing Arts Festival’ 2014 from May 1 to 3.

The Festival, which began in 2000, has established itself as an International Arts Festival. It is one of the largest (festivals) in Asia, respected by both domestic and international arts communities.

Since its genesis in 2006 when a “Chinese Steelband” was formed in commemoration of the 200^th Anniversary of the Arrival of the Chinese in Trinidad and Tobago, the band has maintained a busy schedule performing at many events.
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When Steel Talks

Get your headphones - and Just Listen!!

Panorama 2013 Panyard Recordings
by Basement Recordings

New York, USA - For this year 2013, Basement Recordings captured six of Brooklyn’s finest steel orchestras franchises as part of their annual panyard panorama music recording series. All the orchestras operated at very high level this year and were indeed deserving of having their musical performance captured and preserved for the historical, cultural and community archives.

....The steel orchestras recorded this year are Despers USA; Pantonic; CrossFire; D’Radoes; Sonatas and CASYM, the eventual 2013 Panorama champion.
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When Steel Talks

Results - 2013 New York Panorama


 

New York, USA - Full results for the 2013 New York Panorama which took place at the back of the Brooklyn Museum are here.  CASYM Steel Orchestra, celebrating their 30^th anniversary this year, have also added the title of Panorama champions to their list of accomplishments. Pan Sonatas which placed fourth last year moved up two to second place, while D’Radoes  Steel Orchestra placed third for the third year running.  Pan Fantasy from Canada went away with fourth place.
click for full results & breakdown

Web Posted
When Steel Talks

Upcoming

Global  - Upcoming Steelpan music events from all over the world
click to calendar

Web Posted
When Steel Talks - Special

Champion Panorama Tunes of Trinidad and Tobago

Global - A critical component to winning any panorama competition is the song the orchestras choose to use as the basis of their panorama arrangements. Over the years these songs have inspired classic panorama arrangements. When Steel Talks invites you to take a look at and listen to, these famed tunes which have played more than just a cursory part in the history of Pan, and the lives of the players and fans.
click to hear and/or view