Tunes for 2011
click to hear

Web Posted - Monday January 31, 2011
When Steel Talks

Comments on the Panorama Rules 2011
A When Steel Talks Steelband Panorama Competition Special - by Dr. Jeannine Remy
 

Global - You want me to do what?

I found an email in my box from WST (no given name) asking if I could pen an article on the 2011 Panorama rules. My reply to this mystery person was, “What are you looking for exactly?” The response came back, “As one who has participated in the event on many different levels (judge, educator, player, commentator and arranger) you are in a good position to comment on how these rules have shaped the competition.” I decided to take the challenge.

....I was a bit hesitant about agreeing to write something since there are so many controversial issues this season and I did not want to get caught up in any argument. Some of these issues started in December 2010 ranging from the threatening boycotts, the $800 prelim payment, Boogsie’s lyrics, the 2 million dollar first prize, the revamped judging sheets, and the possible benchmarking of scores… to name a few. As pointed out by WST, I have been on both sides of the fence so I agreed to cautiously address the tip of the iceberg… so here it goes.
read more

Web Posted - Monday January 31, 2011
Trinidad & Tobago Newsday

Lionel Atherton making pan sticks as beautiful as the music
 

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - Pan players can now have pan sticks as beautiful as the music they make on the instrument. Lionel Atherton, out of his love for country and pan, and having some time on his hands, has crafted sticks with a little extra to catch the eye of the beholder.

Using different coloured nylon, the kind that is commonly found on fishing rods, the 77-year-old weaves designs on the stick, then seals and glosses his creation with shellac and lacquer.

At present, he does not market his product, but he hopes pan players will consider the option of using something with a little more flair than the ordinary pan sticks, or that pan lovers purchase the item to remind them of their passion for the instrument.

Atherton said he has made things all his life, including jewelry, fishing rods, homemade wine – and children.
read more

Web Posted - Monday January 31, 2011
Trinidad & Tobago Newsday

Professor has plan for cheaper pans
 

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - University of the West Indies (UWI) professor Winston Lewis has proposed a cheaper method to manufacture the steelpan to become more competitive in the global arena.

He revealed this last Thursday during a lecture at the Faculty of Engineering at UWI, St Augustine. In his vision, the use of integrated management systems (IMS) to improve manufacturing capabilities in the Caribbean region can create efficiencies allowing for greater competitiveness for this country’s national instrument.

Lewis, a professor of industrial systems engineering at the university, addressed the effectiveness of IMS in the manufacturing of the steelpan.
read more

Web Posted - Sunday January 30, 2011
When Steel Talks

Steel Panist Dalton Narine Best Director in LA and Finalist in Africa World Festival
 

Global - Mas Man Peter Minshall copped the Best Director award in the Short Documentary category at the Los Angeles International Film Festival, the screening committee announced Wednesday.

On the same day, the E. Desmond Lee Africa World Documentary Film Festival named Mas Man a finalist for 2011, its fourth anniversary.
read more

Web Posted - Sunday January 30, 2011
When Steel Talks

Steelpan, Invaders, Silver Stars, Phase II, Bake and Saltfish
Eric Mannweiler reports on his 2011 steelband panorama experiences
 

Global - Thursday night I had doubles and my first taste of Pholouri (and mango chutney sauce), with some fresh made juice, followed by visits to the panyards of Invaders, Silver Stars and Phase II. It was a great night, everyone. Friday night there was no rehearsal at the panyard, but I went to Woodbrook Playboyz yard for a lime. WOW that's an incredible band, and I have to say it again, single pan has an incredible feel and energy to it. (Their engine room is also SLAMMIN’).
read more

Web Posted - Sunday January 30, 2011
When Steel Talks

The State of the Steelpan - Mark Loquan
 

Trinidad - I was following from afar the events unfolding in the pan world with some of the latest controversies around payment for pan players, the Ministry and Pan Trinbago appearing not to have a common vision for the instrument and its players, statements on Panorama killing pan, statements on pan in the classroom at risk, the lyrics and message of Boogsie's song, talks of boycotting panorama at one point, etc.

It reminded me of 2 songs I wrote (not for Panorama), one talking about the where all the panmen disappeared after Panorama, looking to make a living outside, not getting paid or appreciated in their own country in a song called "Whey de Panman?" and another talking about a world which was wishful for the future, how pan could be in "Another Time, Another Place". These songs were written in 1999, over a decade ago, for my album Passion for Pan. Kind of makes me reflect on what has changed in that time period.
read more

Web Posted - Friday January 28, 2011
When Steel Talks

Renegades Steel Orchestra off to Folle Journee Festival in France
 

Trinidad- Nine times Panorama Champions Bp Renegades Steel Orchestra flew out of Trinidad on January 26 to participate in the 2011 staging of the Folle Journee Classical Music Festival in France. Led by Captain Candice Andrews, the group comprises of tenor players Levi Ettienne, Kain Cox, Marvis Mohammed, Micahi Felician and Kershiff Perry; Double-tenor player Cleveland King and Anthony Lewis; as well as double-guitar players Jessica Bentick and Lisa Dureaux. The bassists are Kayesha Ollivierre, Ayesha Moses, Joel Allick and Rudolph Grant. Also making the trip are cellist Anthony Crichlow, Stacey Doughlin and Aaron Franklin; percussionist Andrew Brumant, and Kaaron Romain, together with Double-second players Ishmael Wharton and Captain Candice Andrews.
read more

Web Posted - Friday January 28, 2011
When Steel Talks

More on the Trinidad and Steelpan Experience
Eric Mannweiler reports on his 2011 steelband panorama experiences
 

Global - I'm really sorry I haven't updated this post in awhile, I thought it had only been a few days, not five! I have had some wonderful experiences since the last post though, and I'll have even more throughout the rest of the week. Sorry about my absence, but here's what I've been up to:

On Sunday there was a single pan band launching/ Birthday party at a house in Diego Martin (hosted and in honor of a member of Starlift's community). This was the first band launching I've been to, and the first time hearing single pan in person. MAN, I have to say single pan is really nice.
read more

Web Posted - Friday January 28, 2011
When Steel Talks

Symposium to Examine Steel Band Panorama Format
 

New York, USA - Panorama competitions, which engage the steel band community infinitely more than any other regularly scheduled activity, will be the focus of a symposium to be presented by the Trinidad & Tobago Folk Arts Institute in conjunction with the School of Professional & Community Development of Medgar Evers College, on Thursday evening, February 17, from 7:00 to 10:00 PM. The event will be held in the Mary Pinkett Lecture Hall, Room S122 on the Medgar Evers College campus, 1637 Bedford Avenue, Brooklyn (between Carroll and Crown Streets).

Specifically, the symposium’s formal topic is: Is There a Need to Revisit the Steel Band Panorama Format? The Panorama theme was prompted, explained Les Slater, chair of the Folk Arts Institute, by the rash of problems Panorama competitions have experienced in recent years. “Issues related to monetary compensation for participants seem to be a continuing sore point, and this has undoubtedly contributed to organizers having to halt the staging of competitions in some instances.”
read more

Web Posted - Thursday January 27, 2011
Trinidad Express

Big bash for Bertie
Pan legend turns 75
 

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - Bertie Marshall, living legend of the pan, is to be celebrated with a live television event on February 6, when he turns 75.

The event, organised by the Lloyd Best Institute of the West Indies and Gayelle the Channel, aims to get the country involved in raising a national toast to Marshall who is recognised as a genius scientist of the pan.

The master tuner is credited with introducing innovations and harmonisation elements that have helped transform the pan into the musical instrument it is today.

....Marshall's entire career has been dedicated to the pursuit of pan perfection in terms of its sound.

By any definition, he is an engineering genius. It is this that led him to the historic introduction of harmonic tuning of pan notes in 1956, as well as the invention of the double tenor instrument.
read more

Web Posted - Thursday January 27, 2011
When Steel Talks

Steelpan folks are as mad as hell and are not going to take it anymore!
2011 panorama
 

Global - With little more than a few weeks before the largest and most popular steelband music competition in the oil-rich country of Trinidad and Tobago, the local panists have received a major boost with the support of the international steelpan music community. Largely through the availability of the internet, Trinidad and Tobago steelpan musicians have been able to communicate their grievances to the global community for support.
read more

Web Posted - Wednesday January 26, 2011
Herald Star

Festival of Steel coming
 

Ohio, USA - It may be cold and snowy now, but many groups are thinking ahead to warmer weather and planning accordingly.

One such event on the spring calendar is the fifth-annual Ohio Valley Festival of Steel that will feature performances by area steelbands, guest artist Tracy Thornton and a grand finale mass steel band. The festival will be held at Catholic Central High School on May 7 with the time to be announced, according to Shelly Irvine, organizer.

....The festival mission statement is that it be an annual event for steel drum bands in the Tri-State Area. The festival is an opportunity to share a band's current musical program in a single-day festival setting. Each performance should last approximately 20 to 30 minutes. Each participating band will receive a commemorative plaque and also be invited to participate in the grand finale mass steel band performance.
read more

Web Posted - Tuesday January 25, 2011
Western Reserve Public Media Pressroom

UA Steel Drum Band documentaries premiering Feb. 15 on Western Reserve PBS
 

Ohio, USA - The history and heart of steel drum music and its journey from tropical Trinidad to northeast Ohio is the focus of “Hammer on Steel,” two programs premiering Feb. 15 on Western Reserve Public Media (formerly PBS 45 & 49).

Set in Akron and the Caribbean country of Trinidad and Tobago, both programs feature The University of Akron Steel Drum Band.  They are the first documentaries about steel drum music ever shot in high definition.

Documenting the compelling and conflict-torn history of steel drum music, “Hammer on Steel: Bad Boys and Genius” premieres Feb. 15, at 9:30 p.m. on Western Reserve PBS WNEO.1/WEAO.1.

....Forged less than 100 years ago in the heated struggle for independence in colonial Trinidad, steel drum music was often the source of tremendous conflict. As quickly as authorities seized and destroyed the handmade and hammered pans, Trinidadians would rebuild. Now the music has become a source of community pride, national identity, and economic development.
read more

Web Posted - Monday January 24, 2011
When Steel Talks

Tune for Panorama 2011
“Doh Be On Datt”
sung by Rembunction
composed by Arddin Herbert & Ricardo Jones
 

Global - Verse 1
When we reach de heart ah de city (Hands in de sky)
And we feel de pulse ah de street
We’s de brand new jamming committee (Hands in de sky)
Jumping up to de soca beat
When is your turn to buy de beer
How come you does disappear?
Yuh cyah be on dat! No! No!
Yuh cyah be on dat! No! No!
All de time you drinking for free
So we taking yuh salary
Well today, yes today
You not getting away
Wha we say, wha we say, wha we say, wha we say?
click to hear tune

Web Posted - Saturday January 22, 2011
When Steel Talks

My first Roti in the land of the steelpan - Trinidad  & Tobago!
Eric Mannweiler reports on his 2011 steelband panorama experiences
 

Global - I met another foreign player in Starlift and their landlady to take the water taxi to San Fernando (Janine you timed your comment just right!) I can say the view of Port of Spain (POS) from the water is, in my opinion worth while! Seeing the city sprawl out and upwards into the hills... I'm a fan. San Juan seemed kind of intimidating like POS was the first time. But like POS, I realized that once you meet people, they are usually just fine. We saw three yards, stopping first by Skiffle Bunch, off of Coffee Street. We also went by Fonclaire and ended our South trip at Hatters, whose captain welcomed us with some great conversation, and even brought out some tenors for us to play. He has some wonderful ideas about what pan is about and where it should go (like a panist exchange program).
read more

Web Posted - Saturday January 22, 2011
When Steel Talks

Rules and Regulations for T&T Panorama 2011
 

Global - Steelband Music Panorama 2011 Rules and Regulations - Trinidad and Tobago as published by Pan Trinbago.  Pan Trinbago is the producer of the panorama competition.
read more

Web Posted - Friday January 21, 2011
When Steel Talks

UK Pan Tuners appoints Executives
 

UK - The UK Pan Tuners Guild held its Annual General Meeting on Sunday 12th December 2010 at the Percy Centre in Bath. The Guild was set up by steelpan craftsmen who wish to support the development of their craft and industry. This not for profit organisation was created by Guild members who wished to work together as a benevolent society supporting themselves and their families by the practice of their craft.
read more

Web Posted - Friday January 21, 2011
Patch

Old Mill Steel Drum Band Brings Caribbean Warmth to Polar Bear Plunge
 

Maryland - Those taking a dip into the bay’s frigid waters next Saturday will be greeted with the warming sounds of the Caribbean as Old Mill’s Steel Drum Band will perform for the second straight year at 2011’s Polar Bear Plunge.

Presented by the Maryland Special Olympics, thousands will hurl themselves into the bitter cold waters of the Chesapeake in an effort to raise money for the charitable organization. Over $2.2 million was raised in 2007 alone, according to Maryland Special Olympics statistics.
read more

Web Posted - Friday January 21, 2011
Portage Daily Register

Steel Away: Baraboo native brings OD TAPO IMI’s high-energy, tropical sound to PCA Sunday before the big game
 

Wisconsin - Brill, who grew up in Baraboo and now lives in the Windy City, is the man behind the rhythmic sounds of tropical music that's part Blue Man Group, part Jimmy Buffett, and all energy.

"What we do is take what we believe is popular music and make it Caribbean," he said. "This Sunday you will hear the ‘Beer Barrel Polka,' or you will hear ‘Twist and Shout' by the Beatles. And what we like to say is this is what the Beatles would sound like if they were from Jamaica."

OD TAPO IMI has made a name for itself as a top steel drum band that takes songs you know and puts on a riveting display of sights and sounds - with no ho-hum ballad in between.
read more

Web Posted - Friday January 21, 2011
Trinidad Guardian

Despers desert The Hill...again
 

Trinidad & Tobago - Arts and Multiculturalism Minister Winston “Gypsy” Peters is assuring panists from Laventille-based Witco Desperadoes Steel Orchestra that Government will do more to facilitate a safer community for them. He did so after the officials of the legendary steelband packed up their pan racks and instruments last Friday and relocated to the Nipdec carpark on Cadiz Road, Belmont, because players and supporters feared for their safety.

Speaking to the T&T Guardian during a visit to Desperadoes with National Security Minister Senator Brigadier John Sandy, Peters said: “Evidently, we have to do some more because there is no such thing as overnight success. So we have to do some more, at least now. Look through the whole thing and see what needs to be done and continue to do it.” This is the second consecutive Carnival season that the ten-time National Panorama champions Desperadoes have been forced to relocate from their home base on Laventille Hill.
read more

Web Posted - Thursday January 20, 2011
When Steel Talks

Reflections from the Land of the Steelpan
Eric Mannweiler reports on his 2011 steelband panorama experiences
 

Global - It was brought to my attention that some of my posts could be viewed negatively, or as criticisms of the people and culture here. Re-reading my updates, I think I need to apologies for writing responses that may have been carelessly worded and driven by over-reacting, in-the-moment emotions. I want to take some time and qualify some of my past remarks, as well as add some new ones!
read more

Web Posted - Thursday January 20, 2011
When Steel Talks

Visitors Fees and Registration for Panorama 2011
 

Global - Pan Trinbago is issuing a reminder to steelbands who contract foreigners as players in the National Panorama competitions that they are required to pay dues.

This is outlined in Pan Trinbago’s Constitution Bye Laws under the heading Article 9 – Fees and Dues.

The rule reads “Visitors to Trinidad & Tobago who are performing at the Panorama or Festival with a steelband, shall pay a due of one hundred dollars ($100.00)U.S. or six hundred dollars ($600.00) TT.”
read more

Web Posted - Tuesday January 19, 2011
When Steel Talks

A Reality Check In the Land of the Steelpan
Eric Mannweiler reports on his 2011 steelband panorama experiences
 

Global - I have to be honest, I starting to question some of my perceptions of different things in the pan world. Firstly, most people in Trinidad seem very very negative about pan's present and future. Pan Trinbago doesn't do anything beside Panorama, Panorama is killing pan, nobody creates anything worth while anymore, pan is not being handled correctly, etc. I came down thinking Panorama is a wonderful culminating event for pan, in which bands put their best foot forward with arrangements that are thrilling. It brings in tourists and pan lovers from abroad (like me), and is the world wide Super Bowl of Pan. Yet talking with different people, and admittedly many of them are of an older generation, the common opinion is the competition of Panorama has served it's purpose of getting bands off the streets and stopping the riot era, but has done nothing worthwhile for the instrument besides.
read more

Web Posted - Wednesday January 19, 2011
Trinidad Guardian

US students enjoy pan
 

Trinidad & Tobago - Nineteen students from Delaware University in the United States were given a formal reception last Wednesday, by Deputy Mayor of Arima, Patricia Cedeno-Metivier, who welcomed them at the Arima Town Hall. The students are in this country as part of a cultural exchange programme. Selwyn Williams and US Embassy representative Michael Mitchel, were also there to formally welcome the students. The latter informed the students that it was always a pleasure to have citizens of the US visit different countries in a cultural exchange. He said, “They (the students) would get a better understanding of how other persons view their country.”
read more

Web Posted - Tuesday January 18, 2011
When Steel Talks

Meeting Steelpan Notables
Eric Mannweiler reports on his 2011 steelband panorama experiences
 

Global - I drove by Phase II panyard and Desperadoes temporary panyard in town. I don't know as much about Phase II’s history, other than they have been a heavy hitter since at least the mid 80's. Despers is obviously a band with a great history, and I would love to meet Beverly Griffith. I would really appreciate the opportunity to talk about history with both bands!
read more

Web Posted - Monday January 17, 2011
When Steel Talks

Arrival to the Land of Pan & Calypso
Eric Mannweiler reports on his 2011 steelband panorama experiences
 

Global - So I got in on the 12^th of January, at night time. I was very disoriented during my car ride into town, but I also was surprised at how close different areas are to one another. I read about different suburbs or cities and assumed they would be more separated, and further apart. I am blown away at the plants.
read more

Web Posted - Monday January 17, 2011
When Steel Talks

My First Pilgrimage to the Mecca of Pan
Eric Mannweiler reports on his 2011 steelband panorama experiences
 

Global - I posted a discussion on the forum a couple months ago, asking for help with finding people to meet during my first trip to Trinidad and Tobago. I have studied the history and culture of Trinidad, and specifically the steelband movement, for around six years now. I fell in love with the pan my first year at Indiana University, where I played in the steelband for five years. Since graduating, I co-founded the Indiana Steel Pan Association to represent and serve the pan community in my state.
read more

Web Posted - Saturday January 15, 2011
The Worthing Herald

Sir Robert Woodard Academy Bands in Worthing
 

United Kingdom - A NEW steel band will make its performance debut at the end of January.

Pupils from the Sir Robert Woodard Academy, in Upper Boundstone Lane, celebrated the delivery of a new steel drums this week.

The school’s steel band will debut at The Academy Band Spectacular, at Worthing’s Pavilion Theatre, on Friday, January 28.

James Lelean, artistic director of music perform-ance, said: “The steel band is the latest addition to a long-line of successes in the performing arts.

“The academy has invested heavily in this new development which will increase the range of musical opportunities available to our students.

“The highly distinctive sound of a steel band immediately conjures up images of different cultures and students are looking forward to embracing this through their music”.
read more

Web Posted - Saturday January 15, 2011
Trinidad Newsday

Griffith leads Despers once again
 

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - Pan arranger Beverly Griffith will once again take control of Witco Desperadoes for 2011.

This is due to the unavailability of arranger, composer for the past few years Robert “Robbie” Greenidge, whose commitments with the Los Angeles-based Jimmy Buffett band will keep him away from Despers for a period of one month during the Carnival season.
read more

Web Posted - Saturday January 15, 2011
Trinidad Newsday

Despers back down the hill for practise
 

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - Despite attempts to make a return to its Laventille Hill base to practise for the upcoming Panorama competition, the Desperadoes Steel Orchestra (Despers) will be based in Belmont where it practised for the 2010 Carnival season.

Despers’ Manager, Sandra Awai, told Newsday yesterday the decision was made by the pan side, the National Carnival Commission (NCC) and the National Security Ministry, which were assisting to secure the area, to return to Belmont for logistical and security reasons. The band will begin practice this weekend at its temporary base in Cadiz Road, Belmont.
read more

Web Posted - Friday January 14, 2011
Trinidad Express

Pan Trinbago sticks with the old rules
 

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - The executive of Pan Trinbago has rescinded its decision to amend rule 5.1 of the Rules and Regulations governing Panorama 2011, following protests over the decision by bands involved in the competition and the management of Petrotrin Phase II Pan Groove in particular.

The rule amendment to 5.1 had stated that "the lyrics of the chosen piece not contain material which is considered to be libellous and obscene".

However, the executive met on Wednesday and decided to revert to the previous rule, which states, "For the purpose of the competition, each participating steelband may select and perform any calypso as long as the said selection has not been played by said steelband in a previous Panorama competition."
read more

Web Posted -- Friday January 14, 2011
When Steel Talks

Pan Trinbago Drops Rule 5.0 Lyrics Section
 

Trinidad & Tobago - Under a cloud of controversy and uproar from the steelpan music community, Pan Trinbago, the governing body of steelpan music activities in Trinidad and Tobago drops "Rule 5" libelous lyrics section.

The organization has released its official Addendum to Panorama 2011 Rules and Regulations.
read more

Web Posted - Friday January 14, 2011
New York Times

String Meets Steel to Build Harmony
 

Connecticut, USA - In a fitting tribute to Martin Luther King Jr., the Haven String Quartet will be forging new cultural relationships on Monday by sharing a bill — and, at some points, a stage — with its neighbor on Whalley Avenue in New Haven, St. Luke’s Steel Band.

Web Posted - Friday January 14, 2011
When Steel Talks

Pan Tunes A Big Internet Hit for 2011
 

Global - This past weekend thousands of unique visitors from all over the world took in the sounds of the Pan Tunes for 2011 Panorama exclusive on the When Steel Talks (WST) network. Steelpan music enthusiast and Caribbean music lovers took ample advantage of the offering. The special was promoted as 'Nothing But Pan Tunes Today.' The 'pan tunes' remain one of the most popular pages of the 2011 panorama season on the When Steel Talks - Panorama Central online resource center.
read more

Web Posted - Friday January 14, 2011
Trinidad Express Newspapers

Pan penny wisdom, pound foolishness
Trinidad Express Editorial
 

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - The decision by the People's Partnership to return Carnival to the Queen's Park Savannah was favourably greeted. Now, however, the effect of that good news is rapidly being undone by a demonstration of insensitive attitude and ham-fisted policy toward the critical Carnival element that the steelband represents.

Sourness is set to intensify as the Kamla Persad-Bissessar administration seems set to cynically walk away from its campaign pledge of a $2 million first prize for Panorama and other Carnival competition winners. If the administration wanted to pick a fight and squander goodwill, it could hardly have picked a worse adversary than pan players and pan supporters, a worse cause than Panorama, and a worse time than the present.

While Panorama is admittedly not any be-all and end-all, singing a song that it is "killing" steelband, then driving the argument home by short-paying pan players to the tune of $200, betrays only a measly penny-pinching wisdom and heavyweight pound-foolishness. Moreover, the appallingly ill-considered lyrics from Arts and Multiculturalism Minister Winston "Gypsy" Peters only confirm his disappointing unsuitability for the role into which he has been thrust. The Minister has been conducting himself as though he is in an extempo war, rather than in a managerial portfolio requiring tact and thoughtfulness.
read more

Web Posted - Thursday January 13, 2011
When Steel Talks

Free Entrance to "Drag" area for Steelband Trinidad and Tobago's Panorama 2011
 

Trinidad & Tobago - Entrance to the ever popular 'Drag' area in the Queen’s Park Savannah will be free to the general public.

Keith Diaz, President and his Executive have decided that for Carnival 2011 there will be no charge to enter the Drag area at this year’s Panorama competitions.

This gift to steelpan music lovers and to the nation as a whole comes when the National Association is celebrating the diamond jubilee of the steelpan, our national instrument. read more

Web Posted - Thursday January 13, 2011
Trinidad Newsday

Pouchet, Holman: Pan don’t play lyrics
 

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - Pan arrangers say they are getting on with their rehearsals and have brushed aside the clause inserted into Rule 5 for the 2011 Panorama competition, that included “and the lyrics of the chosen piece not contain material which is considered to be libellous or obscene.”

Yet the new clause raised concern among members of the steelband fraternity and they question the importance of lyrics in a competition where music and arrangement are the focal points.
read more

Web Posted - Wednesday January 12, 2011
AOL News

Steel Drum Band Gives Homeless Students a Musical Outlet
 

California, USA  - Ted Williams became a voice for homeless adults after he was discovered in early January, but a group of current and former homeless teens in San Diego is giving them a beat -- in the form of a steel drum band called the Steel Monarchs.

The troupe has been around since 1999 and is part of an after-school program offered at the Monarch School, a K-12 public school established exclusively for homeless youth.

It's one of only three schools in the nation specifically established for homeless students and the only public school of its kind with a nonprofit partnership to supplement students' needs.

One of those needs is, apparently, a steel drum band, according to the band's instructor, Robbie Hutchinson.

....Some people might think homeless kids would be better off learning more portable instruments like, say, the guitar or the harmonica, but Hutchinson says the steel drum is a better first instrument.

"With the steel pan, you can start teaching kids immediately," he said. "With a guitar, you have to master the fingerings and with a trumpet, you have to learn the mouthpiece."
read more

Web Posted - Wednesday January 12, 2011
Trinidad Express Newspapers

The $2M Question
Did the People's Partnership break its promise of multi-million-dollar prizes for Carnival winners?
 

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - As he confirmed the $2 million prize money for the four major competitions (Panorama, Soca Monarch, Chutney Monarch and Calypso Monarch) will only be for this year, Minister of Multiculturalism Winston "Gypsy" Peters yesterday insisted the People's Partnership Government did not break its election promise.

....Reminded that the electorate was told the prize money would be increased to $2 million, Peters said: "Nobody never say that. The Prime Minister said this year they going to get that ($2 million). And I made it clear exactly what it was, what she was saying. She never tell anybody that she was leaving any prize at $2 million indefinitely. She did not say that!"

....However, speaking at the People's Partnership election rally at the Aranjuez Savannah on May 22, two days before the election, Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar told a massive crowd: "Today, I pledge to you as well that all the competitions which showcase the talent of our land, whether it be the Chutney Monarch, the Soca Monarch, the Panorama finals... in all these competitions ..., I pledge to you today that in true equality and justice, that the first prize for all these competitions will be $2 million...and that is how we will rise together, every creed and race; we will rise!"
read more

Web Posted - Wednesday January 12, 2011
Trinidad Express Newspapers

Phase II up in arms over Panorama rule on lyrics
 

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - Another Panorama bacchanal is brewing, with the management of Petrotrin Phase II Pan Groove up in arms over the rules and regulations governing Panorama 2011 handed out to bands on Monday.

Manager Errol Skerritt told the Express yesterday Pan Trinbago has added a clause that could affect his band's chances of moving forward to the final.

Skerritt said under Rule 5— Music Selection, Section 5.1 has been amended to include "and that the lyrics of the chosen piece not contain material which is considered to be libelous or obscene". Last year, Section 5.1 read, "For the purpose of the competition, each participating steelband may select and perform any calypso, as long as the same selection has not been played by said steelband in a previous Panorama competition."
read more

Web Posted - Tuesday January 11, 2011
Trinidad Express Newspapers

A new way to teach music
The Sanch model for Pan in Education
 

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - Why has our music industry not achieved mainstream status? Why are the earnings of our composers and publishers so miniscule? Simeon Sandiford, managing director of Sanch Electronix, believes there may be many valid answers to these questions, but the absence of a structured music industry is at the core of the problem. "At present, all players involved operate from an insular perspective. The result is that there has been very little penetration at global level, where it really matters," he noted.

One possible solution, he believes is Pan in Education (PIE), a unique tool, conceptualised for creating and nurturing a Caribbean music industry emanating from the classroom. "The project has been in the making for seven years and it's now in the final stages of development and ready for implementation," Sandiford noted. "Pan in Education will target students from post-primary right up to pre-university level and we have backward linkages—there's another product—PETE the Panstick, currently undergoing some additional upgrades. PETE will help introduce younger children to music using the computer," Sandiford explained.
read more

Web Posted - Monday January 10, 2011
Trinidad Express Newspapers

Rowley: An insult to the national community
$2m first prize only for 2011
 

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - Government's statement to Pan Trinbago that the promised $2 million prize was only for 2011 is an insult to the intelligence of the national community, Opposition Leader Dr Keith Rowley has said.

Speaking at a news conference at the Opposition Leader's office yesterday, Rowley said: "All of us understood them to say, 'from here on end, the prize for winning one of these major events is $2 million'. Only Gypsy and his friends could now tell us 'what we really meant, the misprint and the misspoke is because we won the election in 2010, we will give you a first prize in 2011 of $2 million and that is the end of it and then we resort to the pre-2010 situation. That $2 million is to celebrate the victory of the UNC'. Give me a break!"

Commenting on the proposed reduction in the pan players' fee from $1,000 to $800, Port of Spain South MP Marlene McDonald said as the former Minister of Community Development she had taken the proposal to Cabinet to have the players' fee "for the entire Carnival season" raised from $400 to $1,000.
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Web Posted - Monday January 10, 2011
Spiceislander.com

Mourning losses in sports and culture
 

Grenada, W.I. - Grenada is mourning the loss of two outstanding sons of the soil who firmly established themselves in their respective fields of endeavours.

Joe Gibbs and Carlyle Roberts, former students of the Grenada Boys Secondary School, had both been ailing. They died within a 24-hour period of each other.

....Roberts was Manager of Cable and Wireless for nearly five years from 2003. He was also a popular figure in the pan community, especially as an executive member, panist, composer and arranger for Republic Bank Angel Harps Steel Orchestra.

His last composition, “Pan Revolution,’’ was interpreted by three local steelbands at Spicemas 2009.

The song, performed by Gia Telesford, also made it to the list from which steelbands in Trinidad and Tobago chose their 2010 Panorama selections.
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Web Posted - Monday January 10, 2011
Trinidad Express Newspapers

Calls for Govt to address Junior Panorama
 

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - The Pan in Schools Coordinating Council is calling on the government to urgently address "all issues concerning the hosting of the 2011 Junior Panorama competition".

The Council is also calling on the government to renew the contracts of former staff of Pan in the Classroom Unit which organises the annual Junior Panorama and the Junior Steelband Music Festival.

President of the Council, Andre Moses, told the Express yesterday there was "uncertainty over whether or not there would be a 2011 Junior Panorama competition" because the Pan in the Classroom Unit of the Ministry of Education was currently without staff as their contracts have come to an end.

"Only one officer in the unit has remained," he said.
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Web Posted - Monday January 10, 2011
When Steel Talks

Large Bands 2011 Lineup and Schedule for Panorama 2011
 

Trinidad & Tobago - Sixteen (16) Large Conventional Steel Orchestras shall be subject to a count and receive the adjudicators’ comments at their respective pan yards on Tuesday 15 February 2011 from 7:00 pm.

As a result, all of the bands listed below will automatically proceed to the National Semi Finals on Sunday 20 February 2011. The sixteen (16) Large Bands will join the other 28 semi finalists in the Small (14) and Medium Bands (14) categories for the “Savannah Party” at the Queen’s Park Savannah, Port of Spain. Starting time is 9:00 am.
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Web Posted - Sunday January 9, 2011
Trinidad & Tobago’s Newsday

100 school pan tutors facing breadline
 

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - The Junior Panorama competition for this year’s Carnival season and the future of the steelpan may be in jeopardy, according to PanTrinbago President Keith Diaz who revealed on Friday night that the Education Ministry will not renew contracts for pan tutors who are part of the ministry’s Pan in Schools project.

At the launch of the 2011 Panorama competition held that night at the Trinidad All Stars pan theatre, Duke Street, Port-of-Spain, Diaz noted the hard work and dedication of panmen over the years to develop the instrument and market across the world. He said despite struggles, this year will mark the 75th anniversary of pan in Trinidad and Tobago.

“George Goddard, who was president when Panorama was established in 1963, had a vision and PanTrinbago will continue with that vision. We want the young people in the country to continue the vision to elevate this instrument that we work hard for and we are faced with many uphill tasks; one of them is that Junior Panorama is in real trouble.
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Web Posted - Saturday January 8, 2011
Trinidad Express Newspapers

School pan in danger, says Diaz
 

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - So said Pan Trinbago's President Keith Diaz, at the launch of Panorama 2011 at Trinidad All Stars panyard on Duke Street, Port of Spain on Friday night.

Diaz said: "Junior Panorama is in trouble. There is a problem with the Ministry of Education. The contracts for the tutors involved in the Pan in Schools programme are not being renewed, so there are instruments in the schools but no tutors.

"Just about 100 tutors would be on the breadline, we are under attack. Pan is in serious problems in Trinidad and Tobago. This is the nursery for the instrument; the children learn at school and then move onto the bigger bands.
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Web Posted - Saturday January 8, 2011
Trinidad Express Newspapers

Desperadoes, Exodus to play for People’s Band on Carnival Monday
 

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - This was disclosed by Chairman of the National Carnival Commission (NCC), Kenny de Silva, yesterday.

"What we have gotten for the People's Band in Port of Spain is a level of interest from some of the large steelbands, such as the WITCO Desperadoes and Exodus. They want to play for the people," De Silva said.

The People's Band will play on Carnival Monday only, crossing the stage in Port of Spain, Chaguanas, Mayaro and San Fernando.

The public can expect to be informed of registration details through the media next week, said De Silva.

A cut-off date for registration will also be advertised next week.

"We will want to get an idea of the numbers as early as possible, because music and security and so on have to be planned according to the number of people in the bands," De Silva said.
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Web Posted - Saturday January 8, 2011
When Steel Talks

Pan Community Launches High Tech Protest - Calls Out Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister
 

Global - In what has to be considered an unprecedented approach to conflict resolution and highlighting of issues within the steelpan music community - members of the steelpan music fraternity have launched an internet-based initiative. It is a petition to garner global support for their concerns and grievances over the way proposed funding for this year’s [2011] steel orchestra music panorama competitions has been allocated by the Government of Trinidad and Tobago.
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Web Posted - Saturday January 8, 2011
When Steel Talks

Pan Tunes Rocking the Internet... The Love Affair and Fantastic Journey Continues Unabashed
 

Global - The pan tune composers continue to tell the pan man’s story - his continued struggles and triumphs, and of course - this magnificent love affair between the pan musicians, fans and the instrument, as no other. No other instrument can lay claims to such historical documentation through song. And this is what makes the pan instrument and its global movement so special. It is about an improbable journey and a fantastic story, of man’s ability to survive and conquer his environment and circumstances - to produce a physical and artistic “wonder” (steelpan and pan music).
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Web Posted - Saturday January 8, 2011
When Steel Talks

Tune for Panorama 2011
“We Own the Night”
sung by Lil' Bitts
composed by Talib Robinson
 

Global - Born on October 31st, Shivonne Liesl-Anne Churche also known to the music world as Lil’ Bitts. Named after Liesl the oldest girl in the Sound of Music, her mother Emerita Sambrano-Churche knew that she was going to be a singer.

In the early years she showed early signs that she was going to be a performer. She attended Sacred Heart Girls’ RC School, Woodbrook Government Secondary and Trinizuela College during that period she participated in many competitions calypso and soca competitions where she won and also was a finalist.
click to hear tune

Web Posted - Saturday January 8, 2011
When Steel Talks

Tune for Panorama 2011
“Pan Jammin”
sung by Emmanuel “Oba” Sinnette
composed by Andre White
 

Global - His steelband story began when he was little more than a tot; and the son of his babysitter at the time, was then one of ADLIB’s older members. Little André was fascinated by the steelpan, and eventually himself joined the orchestra. He was all of six years; since then he has never looked back. Coincidentally, it happened that on the very night of ADLIB’s winning the New York panorama - André saw his former babysitter’s son for the first time in more than a decade - this individual who had been the fateful nexus between him, and what would turn out to be both his instrument of choice, and vehicle to fame.
click to hear tune

Web Posted - Saturday January 8, 2011
Trinidad Express

School pan in danger, says Diaz
 

Trinidad & Tobago - So said Pan Trinbago's President Keith Diaz, at the launch of Panorama 2011 at Trinidad All Stars panyard on Duke Street, Port of Spain on Friday night.

Diaz said: "Junior Panorama is in trouble. There is a problem with the Ministry of Education. The contracts for the tutors involved in the Pan in Schools programme are not being renewed, so there are instruments in the schools but no tutors.
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Web Posted - Friday January 7, 2011
Trinidad Guardian

Panorama 2011 ready to take off
 

Trinidad & Tobago - This Panorama impasse between Pan Trinbago and Arts and Multiculturalism Minister Winston “Gypsy” Peters is akin to walking around Port-of-Spain looking for a toilet with a weak bladder and bad stomach.

The Buzz is now relieved that Panorama 2011 will take place. I got it from the horse’s mouth. That said, let’s move on to more pressing matters.

Now, I believe if you’re going to war, you must, I repeat must, have proper ammunition and equipment.
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Web Posted - Thursday January 6, 2011
Pittsburgh City Paper

Steelpan City
 

Pittsburgh, PA - A local woman is hoping that the sounds of steelpan drums can revitalize one of the city's most historic homes and the lives of young people.

The National Opera House, located on the border of Homewood and Lincoln-Lemington -- and once the home of the National Negro Opera Company -- has sat vacant for years. But now Jonnet Solomon-Nowlin, the building's owner, believes her family's U.S. Steelpan Academy can add value and structure to young lives, while bringing attention to the neighborhood's often-overlooked past.
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Web Posted - Thursday January 6, 2011
When Steel Talks

Pan Community Call Prime Minister out on Peculiar Panorama Funding Logic
 

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - In what has to be considered an unprecedented approach in the land of pan - Trinidad & Tobago - their steelpan governing body Pan Trinbago recently received a crushing blow when the Trinidad & Tobago Government announced disproportionate increases to the annual prize monies allocated to the key constituents of their annual Carnival celebrations. From the perspective of the WST (When Steel Talks) global steelpan music community, the current administration of Trinidad & Tobago delivered the message in no uncertain terms: that the Panorama was not on equal footing with the other elements of Trinidad & Tobago Carnival/cultural activities: Soca, Chutney and Calypso. From a global perspective this is indeed incredulous behavior.
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Web Posted - Thursday January 6, 2011
Trinidad Guardian

Panist shot in Laventille
 

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. -A 57-year-old man was shot while playing pan at Music Makers panyard at Picton Road in Laventille. Police said Ronnie Francis was up to late yesterday warded in stable condition at the Port-of-Spain General Hospital. A report said Francis was practising in the pan-yard on Tuesday afternoon when several shots were heard.

He was shot by a stray bullet in the left arm and taken to hospital.
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Web Posted - Monday January 3, 2011
When Steel Talks

Pan Trinbago States it Position on Panorama 2011
Demands Apology From Minister
 

Trinidad and Tobago -  
At a meeting (adjourned from December 16, 2010) held at City Hall, Port of Spain on Thursday December 30, 2010, the membership of Pan Trinbago Inc., unanimously rejected the position taken by the Cabinet of this country on the matter of reducing the players’ remittance from one thousand dollars (TT $1,000.00) to eight hundred dollars (TT $800.00).

The membership rejected also the insult to their collective intelligence by the State where two million dollars (TT $2,000,000.00) was being offered as a first prize, whilst taking back almost the equivalent amount by way of reducing the Players’ Remittance -a question of taking from the players to pay Prize money.
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Web Posted - Monday January 3, 2011
When Steel Talks

Tune for Panorama 2011
“Something Different”
sung by Sheldon Reid
composed by Natasha Joseph
 

Global - Arranger, producer, steelpan and music tutor Natasha Joseph started playing the steelpan at age 15 in 1991 as a student of Malick Secondary Comprehensive School, Trinidad, and within 3 months she was arranging for the school’s steel orchestra under the mentorship of Mr. Richard Gaskin. 

Franklyn Olliviera - who also wrote the lyrics for Pan Army, Phase II Pan Groove’s 2010 Panorama selection, is a good friend of Natasha Joseph. Upon hearing that she had composed a song, Olliviera came together with Joseph to co-write the lyrics of “Something Different.”
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Web Posted - Monday January 3, 2011
When Steel Talks

Tune for Panorama 2011
“Pan Pa Lam”
sung by Oscar Benjamin
composed by Kenrick & Kenneth Headley
 

Global - Father/Son duo Kenrick and Kenneth Headley are offering Pan Pa Lam (A Salute to Errol Ballytine) for the 2011 panorama season. The tune encompasses many elements that people can recognize from Bally’s hits.

The title of the tune “Pan Pa Lam" comes from another one of Bally’s hits Pam Pa Lam, but with a twist. It highlights the confusion, commotion, and uproar from the crowds when they hear their favourite bands playing Bally’s music in de Savannah for Panorama.
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Web Posted - Monday January 3, 2011
When Steel Talks

Tune for Panorama 2011
“Pantrix”
sung by Steve Sealey
composed by Avis Bruce
 

Global - Avis Bruce is a professional steelpan musician, arranger, composer and music teacher. She has been a member of the present Trinidad and Tobago National Steel Symphony Orchestra from its inception; in addition she was a member of the former Trinidad and Tobago National Steel Orchestra. Avis is currently reading for her Bachelors in Musical Arts at the University of the West Indies in Trinidad.

....This year, 2011, Avis composed - “Pantrix” - sung by Steve Sealy and produced by Kareem Brown. Tobago’s West Side Symphony would be playing this song for Panorama 2011.
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Web Posted - Monday January 3, 2011
When Steel Talks

Tune for Panorama 2011
“Do Something for Pan”
sung by Sache Alexander
composed by Len “Boogsie” Sharpe
lyrics by Gregory Ballantyne
 

Global - The talented Sache Alexander was born in Mt. Hope, Trinidad in 1992 and received her primary and secondary education at St. Rose’s Girls and Bishop Anstey High Schools, respectively. Ms. Alexander is currently an educator in music theory and Spanish at Bishop’s Centenary College, while she herself is pursuing a BA of Science degree in Geology at the University of the West Indies.

Her career as a singer/performer started at the age of 6 in the genre of Calypso under the guidance of her father Leon Greene. Sache’s musical ability flourished on attending Bishop Anstey High school where she joined the choir under the leadership of Ms. Lorraine Granderson who exposed her to various genres of music outside of her comfort zone - that being Calypso.
click to hear song

Web Posted - Monday January 3, 2011
When Steel Talks

Tune for Panorama 2011
“Pan in Front Meh Face”
sung by Adrian Jaikaran
composed by Adrian Jaikaran
 

Global - Adrian Jaikaran started playing the steel pan at the tender age of eight. His deceased uncle, Leroy Thomas, was solely responsible for him learning the steel pan art form. Adrian’s grandmother who sadly passed away on July 4, 2010, took him to and from rehearsals every night and made sure he was well cared for. She was also instrumental in his singing career and was also the one who pushed him into his academic studies. Adrian played pan with Moods Steel Orchestra for three years before he moved to Clico Sforzata Steel Orchestra, where he was placed under the wings of Yohan Popwell, Derrick Nurse, Joslyn Earl, Roy Jones and Trevor Reid.
click to hear song

Web Posted - Monday January 3, 2010
When Steel Talks

Tune for Panorama 2011
“The Journey of Pan”
sung by “The Web”
composed by Hamilton “The Web” Alexander
 

Global - Born Hamilton Alexander in Trinidad, “the Web” has over thirty-five years in a musical legacy that is distinctly Trinidadian. He joined the Trinidad All Stars Steel Orchestra in 1966, and after the 1967 carnival he became a staple player. In 1968 he was elected as a committee member and in 1969 he became the Vice-Captain.

....Web migrated to Canada in 1977 and immediately got involved writing and performing Calypso. In the calypso Monarch competitions in Montreal he placed second on several occasions, and he won the title two consecutive years: 2001 and 2002.
click to hear song

Web Posted - Monday January 3, 2011
When Steel Talks

Tune for Panorama 2011
“More Money for Pan”
sung by “Defosto”
composed by Winston Scarborough
 

Global -
Verse 1
You start as a champion culture minister
By putting carnival back in the savannah
When you change the name of NAPA
To the beat of the drum
And you call it
Lord Kitchener’s auditorium
You even lamented, a people's mas band
Then you bite your tongue
When it came to the pan
So pull up Mister Selector
Pan people need money too
Minister, them ain't joking I'm telling you

Chorus
More money for pan, dear Minister
More money for pan we say
Remember this pan is the Nation’s treasure
And second to none, big brother
You have done so much good things already
But pan is the National Instrument
With carnival round the corner
It will be nice to hear people say
Panorama, hip hip hooray...
click to hear song

Web Posted - Saturday January 1, 2011
Trinidad Guardian

Panmen shut down Panorama proposals
 

Trinidad & Tobago - Panmen are rejecting proposals made by Arts and Multiculturalism Minister Winston Peters for the upcoming Panorama competition. Members of Pan Trinbago met with panmen at City Hall in Port-of-Spain on Thursday evening and passed a resolution against Peters’ offer on the table. Pan Trinbago’s president Keith Diaz claims the minister had noted that Cabinet had approved a decision to give a $2million prize to the winner of Panorama while reducing the stipend to each performing player from $1,000 to $800.

After Thursday’s three-hour meeting, the resolution which had three sections, was passed. The resolution called for an apology by the minister for several statements attributed to him, for his lack of respect for panmen and for his indiscretion. They also want the reinstatement of $1,000 as the minimum consideration for each player. The third part calls for the rejection of the $2 million for the winner of Panorama which is offered in keeping with the People’s Partnership’s promise and further resolve that allocations of 2010 be the same for 2011.
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Web Posted - Saturday January 1, 2011
Trinidad Guardian

Birdsong shares musical vision
 

Trinidad & Tobago - Over the last six years, the Birdsong panyard has been the scene of a continuously evolving programme of community development, social entrepreneurship, and the pursuit of musical excellence. In addition to its core function as a practise venue for the Birdsong Steel Orchestra, the St Vincent Street, Tunapuna location is home to a Birdsong owned landscaping and construction maintenance company, which provides employment for more than 90 members of the community. Literally, the music education programme has been a case of the organisation’s boundless faith in the power of music, and particularly in the role of the steelband movement in harnessing the creative potential of our youth in the face of the host of negative influences that are disguised as popular culture.

It also acknowledges the knowledgeable musicians who contribute to the teaching and learning programme -musicians like Richie Quarless, Raff Robertson, Frankie McIntosh, Clyde Mitchell and Leo Stevenson. The enthusiastic investment of time and effort by these individuals has been matched by the financial resources contributed by a number of local and international organisations, and the untiring support of the Tunapuna community.
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