When Steel Talks

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

Web Posted - Tuesday December 31, 2013
When Steel Talks

Song for Panorama 2014
“E.P.I.C.”
sung by Machel Montano
composed by Full Blown Entertainment, Machel Montano & Kurtis Wells
 

Global - Machel Montano has released several already popular songs in anticipation of the 2014 Carnival in Trinidad & Tobago, and international year-round carnival-related festivities and events.

This track - E.P.I.C. - is not only a download and fete favorite, but has also been selected as the ‘Tune of Choice’ for the annual national steelband Panorama by The Codrington Pan Family. It will be arranged by Cary, Khari and Keisha Codrington for the competition.
click to hear song

Web Posted - Tuesday December 31, 2013
The Tobago News

Petition for Duvone Stewart to perform on jazz main stage
 

Tobago, W.I. - A petition is underway calling for Tobagonian panist Duvone Stewart to perform on the main stage during the 2014 Tobago Jazz Experience.
More than 240 people have already signed the petition which will be sent to the organisers of the festival and the Tobago House of Assembly's (THA) Division of Tourism and Transportation.

It has been started by local entrepreneur and media personality George Leacock.

Leacock said that as Stewart is a renowned panist, he would like the organisers of the Tobago Jazz Experience to explain why they have excluded Stewart from the line-up.
read more

Web Posted - Tuesday December 31, 2013
TimesOnline.com

Ambridge Steel Drums start First Night parade


 

Pennsylvania, USA - The weather will be chilly, but tonight's Highmark First Night Pittsburgh Parade should get off to a hot start thanks to the Ambridge Area School District's Steel Drum Band.

Ambridge's Caribbean-sounding steel drum group was chosen as the lead band for the 8 p.m. parade along Penn Avenue in downtown Pittsburgh. Their repertoire will include "Hot, Hot, Hot" choreographed with 20 of the parade's giant puppets.
read more

Web Posted - Monday December 30, 2013
When Steel Talks

Song for Panorama 2014

“Dancing To The Pan”

sung by “Jackspania”
composed by Jathniel Thomas
 

Global - Jathniel Thomas, known by the moniker “Jackspania,” is an emerging calypso singer who hails from the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. Though he is now establishing himself as a solo artist, he has written and produced many songs for several different artistes like Nap Hepburn among others.

....For the 2014 Panorama season, Thomas has already delivered the well-received track “Pan Man,” and follows up with the track “Dancing To The Pan.”
click to hear song

Web Posted - Monday December 30, 2013
Trinidad Express Newspapers

All Stars honours its stars
 

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - Members of the executive and players of Neal and Massy Trinidad All Stars pulled off the steel orchestra’s annual Christmas dinner and dance last Saturday, despite the lack of electricity, at the Nealco Properties Building at Edward Street, Port of Spain.

....The evening consisted of entertainment by members of the band, Akeil George, Obadele “Supreme” Allick, Dane Gulston and his sons, Daniel and Denilson, a DJ, a sumptuous dinner and a hilarious gift exchange.

....Terry Demas, the man with the music in his head after the arranger and Ren Hamlet were showered with praises.

....Arranger Leon “Smooth” Edwards told the Express the band will start practice next Monday.
read more

Web Posted - Saturday December 28, 2013
The Tobago News

King Sings for Super Blue in London
 

Tobago, W.I. - TUCO Tobago Chairman Ainsley King returned to Tobago last week after representing TUCO cultural events in London, England. King and Pan Trinbago’s President Keith Diaz were specially invited guests at the British Association of Steelband Pan Awards. This event was held at the ballroom of the London Hilton Hotel. It was attended by panists from all over Europe.

King also attended the Shades of Carnival Awards Ceremony at the Trinidad and Tobago High Commissioners Head Office in London. The event honours Caribbean artistes for their outstanding international artistic accomplishments.
read more

Web Posted - Saturday December 28, 2013
The Tobago News

Queen Roslyn and Ware CD launch at Docksite
 

Tobago, W.I. - Two Tobago calypso stars will be launching their new songs for the carnival season next Friday.

2013 Tobago Calypso Queen, Roslyn Reid and Ware will be releasing their CDs at the Docksite on Milford Road, Scarborough.

....Roslyn Reid upset a high quality field of Tobago female calypsonians to score an impressive victory in the 2013 Tobago Calypso Queen competition and went on to place second in the National Calypso Queen finals.

....Her 2014 release is her first major recording and is entitled ‘Mesmerised by Steel’. The calypso, which is her own composition, serenades the steel pan culture and panists of Trinidad and Tobago. The song was recorded at the Trinidad studio of Shadow’s son, Sharlan Bailey and features one of Phase II steelband’s leading panists.
read more

Web Posted - Friday December 27, 2013
The Hartsville Messenger

Jammin’ and learnin’, mon? Steel drum band brings the Caribbean to Thornwell
 

South Carolina, USA - First through fifth grade students at Thornwell School for the Arts sat quietly in the school’s music room listening to Kimberly Roberts tell them about steel drums and the music of the Caribbean. She described about the upbeat, feel-good music of the islands, reggae and calypso.

“Let’s see if you recognize this one,” said Roberts, just before she and her band mates began playing “Under the Sea,” a familiar title tune from the classic Disney movie “The Little Mermaid.”
read more

Web Posted - Friday December 27, 2013
Trinidad & Tobago Newsday

Panorama 2014 launches on January 3
 

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - One hundred and seventy four steelbands have signalled their intent to participate in Panorama 2014 which will be officially launched on Friday January 3, 2014, at the Queen’s Park Savannah, Port-of-Spain, from 9 pm.

The figure includes 20 large conventional, 27 medium conventional, 58 small conventional and 69 single pan bands at the close of registration in March.

....The first phase of the competition is the National Single Pan Competitions in the various regions which will run from January 30 to February 3, 2014, at venues to be announced.
read more

Web Posted - Thursday December 26, 2013
Bognor Regis Observer

Sound of the drum in town


 

West Sussex, England, U.K. - Musicians brought Bognor Regis town centre to life with the beat of the drum.

Members of the Advanced TLA Steelband were busy busking in the centre to raise funds for their musical tour of Barcelona in July of next year.

Shoppers dug deep for the cause and some £500 was collected.
read more

Web Posted - Monday December 23, 2013
When Steel Talks

Song for Panorama 2014

“Smallie Dancing”

sung by & composed David Rudder
 

Global - Calypso and Soca stand out David Rudder pays special tribute in song to Mikey “Smallie” Jairandie who has become a fixture at Trinidad and Tobago's national panorama over the years. Appropriately named “Smallie Dancing” the song speaks of the joy “Smallie” brings to the stage as he supports every steel orchestra performing on panorama night.

The veteran composer and singer, Rudder, is no stranger to the steelpan music arena as many of his songs have been adapted by steel orchestras all over the world.
click to hear song

Web Posted - Sunday December 22, 2013
When Steel Talks

Song for Panorama 2014

“Stingy Brim”

composed by “The Mongoose”
 

Global - Composed by “The Mongoose” and arranged by Nigel Chase, Stingy Brim is a tune written in memory of Lord Kitchener.

“The Mongoose” is the son of a calypsonian by the name of the Mighty Impostor, and Nigel Chase is the son of Carl Chase who founded the Atlantic Clarion Steel Band in 1974.
click to hear song

Web Posted - Sunday December 22, 2013
When Steel Talks

Song for Panorama 2014

“Pan Scandal”

sung by Nicole Greaves & composed by Kenneth Charles & Alvin Daniell
 

Global - Greaves has been a well-known voice around the Trinidad and Tobago Soca scene for over a decade. Nicole was one of the main female voices behind the popular Soca band Surface. Then to prove her versatility, in 2010 Nicole ventured into the calypso arena for the first time, singing one of Carlisle Michael Bailey’s compositions, “Where The Lions Are.” In 2013 Nicole Greaves was at the forefront on Hammer Time and My Sweet Tenor Man. She’s back for the Panorama 2013 season with the track featured here, Pan Scandal.
click to hear song

Web Posted - Sunday December 22, 2013
The Voice

Steel pan bands are fighting for survival

Notting Hill Carnival organisers accused of not doing enough to protect the art form
 

England, UK - A Steel pan veteran has called for more support for the members of the bands who form the heart and soul of London’s famous Notting Hill Carnival and help keep old traditions alive.

Speaking at the British Association of Steelbands’ (BAS) 15^th annual awards ceremony on December 7, Pepe Francis argued that collectives like Mangrove and Ebony help generate millions of pounds for the British economy, yet they are fighting for survival.

A 2002 report by the London Development Agency (LDA) estimated that the event, which takes place every August bank holiday, contributes around £93 million to the economy.
read more

Web Posted - Saturday December 21, 2013
When Steel Talks

Song for Panorama 2014

“When Steel Talk”

sung by Garth David &
composed by Wayne “Birdie” Kirton
 

Global - Garth David has been singing since age fifteen. He performed with Trinidad & Tobago bands Platinum and Volt Express and had two releases during that time. He released songs for Panorama 2012 (Jump Up And Play Yuhself) and Panorama 2013 - Pan Unity and Music Is Meh Business. Garth David is back for the 2014 Panorama season with the track written by Wayne “Birdie” Kirton and featured here, When Steel Talk.
click to hear song

Web Posted - Saturday December 21, 2013
When Steel Talks

Song for Panorama 2014

“Pan Carnival”

sung by “Chucky” &
composed by Pelham Goddard
& Alvin Daniell
 

Global - Known in the calypso world as “Mr. Chucky,” his real name is Roderick Gordon. He is a product of the Junior Monarch Calypso Competitions in Trinidad & Tobago, and has participated in various National Joint Action Committee competitions as well as Better Village productions. In 2007 he won the “Stars of Tomorrow” Competition. For the 2014 Panorama season he is the vocalist on this track, Pan is Carnival.  
click to hear song

Web Posted - Friday December 20, 2013
When Steel Talks

Song for Panorama 2014

“Pan Anthem”

sung by Eunice Peters &
composed by Felix Jones
 

Global - Eunice Peters has been singing songs for the Pan since 1999 and has established herself as one of the top female singers in this area. Her list of songs includes Colours and House of Music (the theme of Starlift’s Panyard). Eunice was also a regular finalist in the Pan Song Competition placing second in 2004. In 2013 she was heard on Keshorn – The Javelin Champion. For the 2014 Panorama season her vocals grace the track featured here, Pan Anthem.  
click to hear song

Web Posted - Friday December 20, 2013
When Steel Talks

Meet Master Akini Gill, Masters of Music Education - UpClose!
 

Global - It’s a Christmas Story, It’s a Wonderful Life, It’s a Tale of Two Cities, all wrapped into one - but mostly it’s a tale of an improbable journey. A life’s journey that began in East Dry River, Port-of-Spain, on the island of Trinidad with its uncertain narrative, and navigates up to and through great halls of learning at NYU (New York University) with boundless promise and distinction. But like the steelpan instrument’s indomitable “spirit” and implausible existence - Akini serves as a reminder that genius, brilliance, and that true authentic intellectual spark - can and often will be found where you least expect it. And in no small contribution, the power of the steelpan instrument.
read more

Web Posted - Thursday December 19, 2013
When Steel Talks

Song for Panorama 2014

“God’s Music”

sung by Sean Daniel &
composed by Earl Brooks, Sr., Winsford Devine & “Crazy”
 

Global - God’s Music is another song in the running as a contender in the ‘Pan Tune’ arena for the 2014 Panorama season, into where several musicians, composers and producers have already thrown their hats. Sung by Sean Daniel - composer, arranger and pan musician Earl Brooks, Sr. (pictured) wrote the music for this track, as he did for the 2013 ode to the late legendary pan icon Bertie Marshall called One For Bertie. Lyrics for God’s Music are attributed to Winsford Devine and Edwin “Crazy” Ayoung. Veteran musician Leston Paul arranged the piece. 
click to hear song

Web Posted - Thursday December 19, 2013
When Steel Talks

Song for Panorama 2014

“Pan In Yuh Pwefen”

sung by “Crazy” &
composed by Winston Maingot
 

Global - Edwin “Crazy” Ayoung makes his home in California on the USA’s west coast, with frequent trips back to the land of his birth, Trinidad and Tobago. For the 2014 steelband Panorama season, he has already lent his vocals to “Thoroughbred of Pan” released back in August of this year, and returns with another, the track featured here, “Pan In Yuh Pwefen,” written by Winston Maingot.

A seasoned and familiar talent year-round, “Crazy’s” voice is well-known on the pan scene. He sang one of the most popular ‘pan tunes’ in years; written by Amrit Samaroo, 2007’s Band From Space captured the imagination of the steelband music community worldwide, becoming the panorama selection for some, and part of the overall repertoire for others.
click to hear song

Web Posted - Wednesday December 18, 2013
Trinidad Express Newspapers

The Achaiba’s annual Christmas Concert


 

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - The Achaiba's Steelpan and Piano Musical Arts school on December 14 hosted its annual concert at the concert hall at Naparima Bowl, San Fernando. The concert heard performances on pan, drum, piano, and guitar, and from the school's junior choir, and junior and senior steel orchestra.
read more

Web Posted - Tuesday December 17, 2013
When Steel Talks

The Champions CASYM Steel Orchestra Close Off Year with a Bang, Thanks and Praises

Brooklyn, New York - There was an extra glistening in the reflections as the light hit the beautiful mirror-like looking instruments played by CASYM on stage. Not a smudge was in sight as the rays seemingly beamed in all directions, but brought a special glow also to that great big 2013 Panorama Champion trophy residing stage left.

....It’s been a fantastic year for New York’s 2013 Panorama champions CASYM Steel Orchestra, and the overall organization. Just a couple months removed from capturing the coveted New York title, CASYM held its annual Christmas show. This year the event was called “A Caribbean Christmas Extravaganza.” And an extravaganza it was. Again, as in past years CASYM demonstrated why their organization is a premiere panorama steel orchestra and much more.
read more

Web Posted - Tuesday December 17, 2013
BroadWayWorld.com

American Composers Announce Kendall Williams as their Van Lier Emerging Composer Fellow for 2013-2014
 

New York, USA - American Composers Orchestra (ACO) is pleased to announce that Kendall Williams will be the orchestra's Van Lier Emerging Composer Fellow for the 2013-2014 season. The Fellowship, established in 1999, offers a comprehensive and multi-faceted program that equips emerging composers with the full range of professional skills and tools necessary for building a successful career as a composer of orchestral music. This year's Fellow, Kendall Williams, received his B.A. in Music from Florida Memorial University and M.M. in Music Theory & Composition from NYU Steinhardt, studying with Julia Wolfe, Michael Gordon, and Rich Shemaria. His main instrument is the steel pan.
read more

Web Posted - Sunday December 15, 2013
When Steel Talks

Pan Tunes? - It’s the Pan People’s Steelpan Story
 

Global - What is a ‘Pan Tune?’ This question has been asked many times before. Many learned people say there is no such thing. Others say it is that tune that allows the arrangers, and by extension the panorama orchestra/band - to best showcase their musical and performance abilities for the great event. There has never really been any hard-and-fast definition of what this entity (‘Pan Tune’) is. It’s been for the most part, a blurred line that has been left up to personal interpretation and/or taste.

In a rare pensive moment, we found ourselves listening to the 2014 collection of Pan tunes in the WST rotation not as technocrats, music critics or producers - but as simple listeners - pan fans, if you will. And in this disconnected moment, the realization of what a ‘Pan Tune’ is, surfaced.
read more

Web Posted - Saturday December 14, 2013
StabroekNews.com

‘Christmas in the Park’ begins on Sunday
 

Georgetown, Guyana, SA - The Protected Areas Commission (PAC) is inviting the public to ‘Christmas in the Park’ at the Botanical Gardens.

According to an invitation issued by the PAC, there will be a grand steel pan concert on Sunday, December 15, 2013 at 4.00 pm under the gardens’ bandstand, featuring steel pan bands from the Ministry of Culture’s Music School, the Buxton Pride, and Pan Wave steel orchestra. At the same time a smaller band will entertain patrons in the GT&T Benab of the National Park.
read more

Web Posted - Friday December 13, 2013
New York Times Style Magazine

Art Matters | Taking Back the Steel Drum From the Hippies
 

New York, USA - “The steel drum is the most misunderstood instrument in the world,” says the Trinidadian curator Everard Findlay. He admits that for many people, it evokes “guys on a cruise ship, with a smile and dreadlocks.” On Tuesday and Wednesday, Findlay hosted “7 Drums 7 Artists,” a cross-disciplinary tribute to the steel pan at NeueHouse, a co-working space in the Flatiron district that opened in April....The co-founder, Joshua Abram, says that “learning happens at the edge of one’s network”; as part of that philosophy, NeueHouse offers evening cultural programming for its members that brings together artists, scientists, filmmakers and musicians.

At the heart of the project were seven artworks, created by artists (including Rita Ackerman and Olaf Bruening), musicians and scientists, each of which incorporated a steel drum. But “7 Drums 7 Artists” was also partly a tribute to Dr. Elliott Mannette, the 82-year-old Trinidadian inventor of numerous game-changing steel-drum innovations (many with impressive-sounding names like Invader Lead, Quad-duet, Six Bass).
read more

Web Posted - Thursday December 12, 2013
When Steel Talks

Meet Dr. Brian Copeland - Inventor of the G-Pan & PHI - UpClose!

Brooklyn, New York - Meet Dr. Brian Copeland. His father is the well-known veteran mas band leader Mack Copeland. He is soft-spoken, humorous, cerebral, forward-thinking, thoughtful and extremely patriotic - maybe to a fault. He is indeed a son of the soil who is always thinking of Trinidad and Tobago first. However, in the last couple of years Dr. Copeland has been on a journey that has taken him from revered, awarded national hero - to accusations of improprieties for the very inventions that he was awarded for.

An exclusive When Steel Talks video interview with Dr. Brian Copeland, the inventor of the G-pan. After a turbulent couple of years, here is his story in his own words.
read more

Web Posted - Wednesday December 11, 2013
PressConnects.com

Philharmonic's holiday concert features community talent

Binghamton High School Steel Drum Band performs

Binghamton, NY, USA - The Christmas season is all about getting together with family and friends to have a fun time — and that’s the spirit behind the Binghamton Philharmonic’s holiday pops concert Saturday.

In addition to the symphony — conducted by music director José-Luis Novo — the evening’s program at the Forum will include performances by (and collaborations with) soprano Jill Gardner, the Madrigal Choir, the Basically Bach Ensemble and the Binghamton High School Steel Drum Band.

....The Binghamton High School Steel Drum Band became part of the show through Joel Smales, BHS’s director of bands who also plays percussion with the philharmonic. He’s discussed a collaboration for many years, and now it’s finally come to fruition.
read more

Web Posted - Tuesday December 10, 2013
NIU Today

CSA Sinfonia Reunion Concert planned Dec. 22
 

Illinois, USA - More than 100 players will fill the NIU Music Building’s Boutell Memorial Concert Hall stage at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 22, for the CSA Sinfonia Reunion Concert.

Alumni from the 15-year history of the orchestra are returning to perform with current members and with guest performer Liam Teague. The concert has been planned as a celebration of the 25th anniversary of the NIU Community School of the Arts.
read more

Web Posted - Monday December 9, 2013
When Steel Talks

Pan Progress - NYU Steel

New York, New York - Dance, cheers, warm feelings and steelpan music wonderment were the order of the day at the NYU (New York University) Steel Fall concert at Frederick Loewe Theatre - all wrapped into a joyful, professional, educational and entertainment experience. Simply persuasive. And the operable word of the night would be “connection.” NYU Steel connected with the audience from start to finish.

From Stevie Wonder’s “Superstition” to Cyndi Lauper’s “Time After Time,” and then moving through Rush’s “Ghost of a Chance” and finally ending with Trinidad and Tobago’s calypso stand-out Merchant’s “One Superpower” - NYU Steel channeled the audience on a musical and transcendent journey that truly embraced the travels, history and experiences of the instrument. Yes, the steelpan is a living, breathing entity. Moreover, it was very clear that members of NYU Steel have begun to develop very special relationships with the steelpan instrument and art form.
read more

Web Posted - Monday December 9, 2013
When Steel Talks

The birdsong Experience

Web Posted - Monday December 9, 2013
The Joplin Globe

MSSU music group to buy steel drums for new ensemble
 

Missouri, USA - Percussion students at Missouri Southern State University plan to organize a community-based steel drum ensemble that will perform concerts in Joplin.

“We’re excited, and everybody we talk to is excited about this,” said Brian Fronzaglia, director of athletic bands and a percussion professor at MSSU. “It just gets us even more geeked about it.”

The ensemble is expected to launch in March, when Missouri Southern will put on its first World Music Festival. It eventually will morph into a broader group “where we invite people from the community to get them involved and have them enjoy music on a different scale,” Fronzaglia said.

The ensemble will be composed of at least 20 members who initially are MSSU percussion majors.
read more

Web Posted - Saturday December 7, 2013
When Steel Talks

Veteran Pan Men Set Sights on Anti-War Short Film
 

Global - That unforgettable sight—for those who have been to “the front,”—of the battery being poured over in preparation for firing, is the opening salvo of insight into the short documentary about War and Peace, co-produced by Roycrosse and Dalton Narine, both steelband men in their own right, and both at one time having been rooted in the legendary Trinidad All Stars Steel Orchestra in Trinidad & Tobago.

....The film itself is brought to life through the twin-labors of Roycrosse and Narine, the latter involved in his capacity of film maker, director et al, alongside the life experience and skill set of artist, composer, writer, musician and pan man Roycrosse – both joined in committing the enterprise to the ‘moving screen.’
read more

Web Posted - Saturday December 7, 2013
Inside Halton

Take in a Caribbean Christmas
 

Ontario, Canada - The Caribbean Association of Halton (CCAH) is hosting its annual Christmas concert Sunday (Dec. 8).

This year’s theme is intergenerational and intercultural relationships built through the art form of steel pan music and culture.

“Steel pan music, addresses diversity and inclusion, is highly social, lots of fun to play and listen to, and easy to learn, all the while creating opportunities for increased social interaction for enthusiasts of all ages. Playing steel pan is all about working together in harmony,” stated a news release. “It’s great way to experience a Caribbean Christmas.”
read more

Web Posted - Wednesday December 5, 2013
The CBC.ca

Hamilton man to be first to bring steel pan to Singapore
 

Hamilton, California - In three weeks time, Dejehan Hamilton will introduce an instrument to a part of the world where its never yet been performed.

The 20-year-old musician from Hamilton’s north-end will be the first to perform the steel pan in Singapore. Ever.

Hamilton –stagename Luckystickz – is a second-year student at Boston’s prestigious Berklee School of Music and he's committed to taking his instrument not just to new places, but to new genres, beyond its roots in Caribbean music into Jazz, Gospel and more.

WST note - The Steelpan has been present in Singapore at least since 2009. http://ning.it/1dhsLgE
read more

Web Posted - Wednesday December 4, 2013
The Gazette-Virginian

Virginia All-Steel Orchestra, high school chorus to perform Dec. 15
 

Virginia, USA - Ebenezer CME Church, South Boston will host The Virginia All-Steel Orchestra (VASO) on Sunday, Dec. 15, at 3:30 p.m. along with the Halifax County High School Chorus.

The public is invited to attend this afternoon performance by these two groups.

The Halifax County High School Chorus is directed by The Rev. Andre P. Williamson, pastor of Ebenezer CME Church, and The Virginia All-Steel Orchestra is managed by Antonio Edgeton of Martinsville. This group is reaching out to “churches” in an attempt to spread its movement all over the nation.

Berklee Shawn Thwaites, director of The Virginia All-Steel Orchestra, will share his story on how one can make a difference in his or her life as well as in the lives of others.
read more

Web Posted - Tuesday December 3,, 2013
The Tobago News

Steelbands, calypsonians facing bleak Carnival
 

Tobago, W.I. - Tobago steelbands and calypsonians could face a bleek 2014 Carnival if there is not an increase in their allocations for the coming Festival.

This was the view expressed by both Marie Toby and Ainsley King who both lead Pan Trinbago Tobago Region and TUCO Tobago Zone respectively. They gave their views after the Carnival Launch at Magdalena Resort last Friday.

Both King and Toby were upset when it was announced by THA Secretary for Community Development and Culture Dr. Denise Tsoiafatt Angus that Pan Trinbago will receive $1.4 million for Carnival 2014 and TUCO $1 million. Both allocations represent a cut of $200,000 on their 2013 Carnival allocations.
read more

Web Posted - Monday December 2, 2013
When Steel Talks

“Calypso Dead!”

Global - Calypso, the unique art form that defined Trinidad and Tobago for a hundred years, that clever, creative combination of lyrics with rhyme and melody to haunt the living and awaken the dead, is dead. Gone to a great cultural mausoleum that exists somewhere between the Bassman's Hell and cyberspace. Thirteen years into a new century, a new millennium, I cannot write, "Long live calypso!"

After you would have cussed me for daring to challenge the cultural status quo, more so on the day after forty calypsonians sang at the semi-finals in Skinner Park, six of them former monarchs, twenty of them women, answer me a few questions. When last have you heard an original calypso (not vintage) that grabbed you by the ears, forced you to listen to its lyrics, to hum to its sweet melody and, overwhelmed, you cried out, "Kaiso, boy!" When last?
read more

Web Posted - Sunday December 1, 2013
When Steel Talks

Panorama Champions - 1963 to Present - Performances on Video

Trinidad - Video and audio performances of steelband panorama champions of Trinidad and Tobago. 1963 to present.
watch performance

Web Posted - Sunday December 1, 2013
When Steel Talks

“Passion for Pan” Sets Tone - Sunday’s Steelpan Music on the Web Radio

Global - Break out the tablets, high-end mobile devices and/or desktop/laptop computer - Sunday’s the day for Pan. With no less than four steelpan music shows streaming over the internet for the world’s steelpan music lovers to listen to, choose from and revel in - Sunday has become steelpan music aficionados delight.

Clearly the man who sets the tone and owns the evening is none other than the smooth-talking and very knowledgeable Junior Saldenah, the host of the hour-long “Passion for Pan.” The only thing better than a one-hour Saldenah show would be a two- or more hours show. It’s an informative, professional show without the unnecessary banter. You can currently catch the show from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. EST.
read more

Web Posted - September, 2013
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.
click for more

Web Posted - September, 2013
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

Complete RESULTS for the Trinidad & Tobago 2013 Panorama

Global - Full results for the Trinidad and Tobago 2013 Panorama are in. Steel Orchestras competed in the medium and large categories at the Queen’s Park Savannah in Port-of-Spain, Trinidad last evening.  Both 2012 defending champions were dethroned.
click for full results

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