| |
|
 |
|
Sonatas Steel
Orchestra on stage at their 2007 launch |
New York
- This past weekend New York's Sonatas Steel Orchestra
held its annual steelband launch at KC Hideaway in
Brooklyn. Sonatas' launch is traditionally a great
place to hear New York steelband music at it's best on a
Summer evening. This year's event did not
disappoint. With many pan notables in attendance,
the participating orchestras delivered varied and
entertaining sets that covered a wide range of musical
genres.
|
. |
 |
|
Arrangers Amrit
Samaroo, Robert Greenidge and Yohan Popwell at
Sonatas Launch |
Present at this
year's event were New York Marsicans, D'Radoes, Harmony,
Sesame Flyers, Steel Sensation and the host Sonatas
Steel Orchestra. Sonatas took the stage at 7:30 pm
and reinforced their position as one of the finest steel
orchestras in the United States. Under the musical
direction of arranger Yohan Popwell - Sonatas dazzled
the audience with their mixed repertoire that included
David Rudder's The Ganges and Nile, Grover
Washington's Just the Two of Us and Mister
Magic.
|
. |
 |
|
Steel Sensation |
Each group was
afforded time to perform four pieces in the initial
round. Sonatas' management kept the show flowing
and organized, as there were virtually no breaks once
the first band began its session. The bands took
advantage of this arrangement, performing with a vigor
because of the short sets. All the bands delivered
superior entertainment. Of particular note was
Steel Sensation who for all intents and purposes stole
the show with their far-reaching repertoire and highly
skilled performance. They received a rousing
ovation. Steel Sensation is under the musical
directorship of Amrit Samaroo, and again showed that in
this setting, great musicianship was paramount and size
was immaterial.
For more on steelpan music in New York click >>
www.NewYork.PanOnTheNet.com
|
Sonatas
Launch Brings Out the Best
Back
To Pan Global Page