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 200th Anniversary of the Arrival of the Chinese in Trinidad and Tobago, the band has maintained a busy schedule performing at many events. Some of these included many engagements hosted by the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China, at the Prime Minister’s Diplomatic Centre and more recently at the Inauguration Ceremony of President Anthony Carmona at the Hasely Crawford Stadium.
Members of The Trinidad & Tobago Chinese Steel Ensemble
However, the steelband’s fondest wish, from the time of its formation, was to play in China, the country from which their forefathers came.
In May 2014 that aspiration will be realized, thanks to the tireless efforts of Mr Li Xuda, Cultural Attaché at the Embassy. “The band considers it a privilege to be invited to such a prestigious festival,” confessed Ken Chang On, President.
“We regard it as a once in a lifetime opportunity for a Chinese Steelband to promote our national instrument in China. More importantly, 2014 marks the 40th Anniversary of diplomatic relations between our country and the People’s Republic of China, as well as the opening of T&T’s first Embassy in Beijing.” Chang On ended.
The band is located at McDonald Street, Woodbrook, Trinidad and practices three times weekly. The captain is Susie Young, arranger - Douglas Redon and pan tuner, Terrence Sheppard.
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