Web Posted - Tuesday April 13, 2021
When Steel Talks Reboot - Feel the Music - Live the Experience

A Musical Tribute to the late Martin “Dougie” Douglas - “Why Should I Feel Discouraged? (His Eye is on the Sparrow)” | Khuent Rose  & Damany James | Brooklyn, New York, USA

Brooklyn, New York, USA - Musician standouts  Khuent Rose and Damany James perform a special tribute to the late Martin “Dougie” Douglas - ʽWhy Should I Feel Discouraged? (His Eye Is on the Sparrow)’
Listen and watch

Web Posted - Sunday April 11, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Home Going Service for Mr. Martin “Dougie” Douglas

by When Steel Talks

Brooklyn, New York, USA - From Martin Douglas' memoriam: For over two decades Mr. Douglas was a leader in Brooklyn’s steelband scene, playing his music everywhere he went, mentoring generations of young players and keeping the steelpan music a vibrant part of New York’s cultural life. He was the founder of Crossfire Steel Orchestra, a steel band admired across the city and beyond, and president of the United States Steelband Association.
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Web Posted - Friday April 9, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Dr. Geraldine Connor (Educator, Theatre Director, Musician, Composer, Performer, Panist & Arranger) - In Her Own Words

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Global - She was one of the pioneers who had huge dreams, tremendous respect and expectations for the steelpan instrument. Moreover, she applied her immense talents into the art form. She lit the torch, and pointed out which way was up. Through her few posts she told us about her accomplishments, gave us history, guidance and much encouragement. Notes and thoughts for the WST family from the legendary and iconic Dr. Connor.
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Web Posted - Friday April 9, 2021
Trinidad and Tobago Newsday

Small wants steel pan to be prime instrument in schools

(Left to Right): Rodney Small & Ronaldo Browne, a member of the Sion Hill Euphonium rendering a song at last Tuesday’ press conference

St. Vincent and the Grenadines, W.I. - Renowned local panist – Rodney Small, wants to see the steel pan be made the prime instrument in schools in St Vincent and the Grenadines- SVG.

Small made this declaration while speaking at a press conference of the Sion Hill Steel Orchestra Inc., last Tuesday at the Peace Memorial Hall.

Representing the Youlou Pan Movement (YPM), the umbrella body for the artform in SVG, Small declared: “I am now going [to] personally challenge the Honourable Prime Minister, the Minister of Education and the Minister of Culture to propose to Cabinet that we make the steel pan instrument the prime instrument in our schools’ curriculum and music programmes”, a press release stated.

Small, who heads the YPM, further proposed that it should not be just as an extracurricular activity, “but it must be placed on the front burner of the education system, just like Math and Social Studies”.
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Web Posted - Tuesday April 7, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Rudolph Commissiong - a pioneer of steelband music - Arranger & Captain of Esso Dixie Stars - UpClose!

by Rudolph Commissiong

Rudy Commissiong, captain of Esso Dixie Stars is on left. Steve Dupres - at centre - was the arranger and player of the “Echophones” made by [Herman] “Rock” Johnston, who's at right in picture

Global - "One day during rehearsals I took a break and walked through the terrace, which was part of the building at the back and side of the nightclub to a bar, which I thought was part of the hotel, and called Casey’s Bar. There were about half a dozen white men drinking and talking. I ordered a beer. The bartender stood there rather frozen, then one of the men who I assumed knew who I was told the bartender something about the band. The bartender then said: “OK, but you will have to take it with you. You can’t drink it here....” That was very degrading and something that lived with me for a long time. ------- Rudolph Commissiong
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Web Posted - Tuesday April 6, 2021
When Steel Talks

Meet Angela Howard - New York, USA

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

New York, USA -“Aside from my love of the instrument, I think it is important to preserve our culture in perpetuity. All too often, we are so overly influenced by ʽwestern culture’ that we are willing to leave our own ways behind. I don’t want Pan or Caribbean culture to be like those extinct languages lamented only after they are lost altogether. We bring our stories and history to life through our culture. It is our responsibility to document and preserve in our own voices, as opposed to having someone else interpret it for us.” -- Angela Howard

She is indeed a woman in pan - Pan daughter, wife, mother and fan. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - panist and veteran pan mom Angela Howard shares her experiences, views, reflections and expectations on Pan, culture, and the steelpan art form overall.
read more

Web Posted - Monday April 5, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Koruri Hanato of Japan

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Japan - She is a panist, arranger and leader of Panple Steel Orchestra in Japan. And she is a member of the famed Trinidad All Stars. In an exclusive interview, Koruri Hanato shares her immeasurable joy and love of Panorama, the steelpan instrument, its music and culture on When Steel Talks.
See more

Web Posted - Sunday April 4, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Shannon Mc David - Trinidad & Tobago

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - She is a scholar, an intellect, a serious practitioner of the performing arts. This, in addition to being a budding scientist and of course a panist, who knows a thing or two about winning Panorama performances - as a member of both the 2009 & 2010 champions Silver Stars Steel Orchestra - and the 2018 Renegades Steel Orchestra. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - Shannon Mc David shares her feelings, experiences, expectations and passion for the steelpan instrument, its music, the art form and more.
See more

Web Posted - Sunday April 4, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Rudolph Charles - Thirty-Six Years Later, Steelband Leader Still Exceptional

by When Steel Talks

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. -   From Rudolph Charles' memoriam: He led his community and band with a togetherness that could only have been achieved by love and total commitment to the cause.
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Web Posted - Sunday April 4, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Miranda Martin - Trinidad & 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 - Saturday April 3, 2021
When Steel Talks

Ralph MacDonald - WST Exclusive Interview - on the Legendary Rudolph Charles

Global - In this part of the When Steel Talks exclusive interview with Grammy award-winning producer and song writer, Ralph MacDonald - he speaks on the brilliance of the legendary leader of Desperadoes Steel Orchestra, Rudolph Charles.
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Web Posted - Sunday April 2, 2021
Trinidad and Tobago Newsday

Al-Rawi promises Hatters proper home

San Fernando, Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - San Fernando West MP Faris Al-Rawi said he is doing all he can to make sure Hatters Steel Orchestra finds a proper home in the correct way.

“It is a work in progress, and we (stakeholders) should get that right with proper consultation and co-ordination,” he said on Wednesday night after a lease-distribution ceremony in Marabella.

“We are paying attention to Hatters’ reorganisation and relocation.”

He referred to the band as a strong contributor to the history of pan. The band is one of the oldest in San Fernando.

Last month, thieves broke into Hatters’ panyard at Lady Hailes Avenue in San Fernando. They stole hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of equipment and musical instruments, including pans.
See more

Web Posted - Friday April 2, 2021
When Steel Talks

Marvin Gaye - Calypso Blues - To take me back to Trinidad

A Tribute to The Great Nat “King” Cole

Global - The late great Marvin Gaye sings Calypso Blues written by Nat “King” Cole as a tribute to him on the “A Tribute to The Great Nat King Cole” 1965 album.
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Web Posted - Thursday April 1, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Sunity Maharaj of Trinidad and Tobago

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - She is one the foremost critical thinkers of our time - always bringing a sober and honest voice to the conversation. An ardent supporter of Trinidad and Tobago arts and culture - Sunity Maharaj speaks on women, Pan, and the way forward in an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks.
See more

Web Posted - Thursday April 1, 2021
When Steel Talks

Rudolph Charles remains... The Baddest Desperado

by Dalton Narine

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - Thirty-six years ago, Laventille’s Rudolph Charles shuffled off this mortal coil and went out in style - a glam funeral service, his soul encased in the Chariot pans he invented and three religions vying for meager props at his rites on the banks of the Caroni - as an age of innocence was nearing its own death.
See more

Web Posted - March 2021
When Steel Talks

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Sisters in Steel - A Tribute To Women In Pan

 

Global - “Their Story, Their Voice, Their Life, Their Dreams, Their Passion - PAN”

It’s March and that means this is Women’s Month. It is the month when we celebrate the contributions of women to the world. Normally - as is the When Steel Talks tradition - we highlight the month through a series of articles and interviews with the female movers, shakers, and up-and-coming stars.
Meet these Sisters In Steel!

Web Posted - Wednesday March 31, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Glenda Gamory - President of Pantonic Steel Orchestra

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Brooklyn, New York  - At a very young age she said to her mentor - the iconic Rudolph Charles of the famed Desperadoes Steel Orchestra ““Trail”, when I grow up - I want to be just like you. I want to lead a steelband, take it to Panorama and win. To which he replied - “G-Forde what ever you put your mind to you can do it.”

“It’s great when you have good people behind you... Just say I’m the chief, cook and bottle washer.”  ....Glenda Forde-Gamory
See more

Web Posted - Wednesday March 31, 2021
When Steel Talks

Meet Rudolph Charles - Leader, Manager, Innovator and Tuner of Desperadoes Steel Orchestra - UpClose!

a Von Martin Interview

Global - Listen to an exclusive Von Martin–interview with Mr. Rudolph Charles. Here is Rudolph’s story in his own words with noted author and journalist Von Martin. This interview was done Thursday after Carnival 1983 at his home in East Dry River, Laventille, Trinidad.
Listen

Web Posted - Monday March 29, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Claudie Donne - Guadeloupe, Paris, France

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Guadeloupe/France - “I just have to play pan. It makes me feel connected to my roots.”

She radiates pure unadulterated love for the steel pan culture and art form. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - educator, panist and performing artist Claudie Donne shares her global views on Pan, the culture and her love affair with the instrument.
See more

Web Posted - Monday March 29, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Dr. Miho Takekawa - Seattle, Washington

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Seattle, Washington, USA - “When I heard Ray Holman play on the double-seconds, I could not believe my senses. This was clearly beyond what any words could express.”

“....I start from the origin of the country, just to make certain they know that pans are not originally from Jamaica nor Hawaii.”

From the age of three, music has been her life. She is a musician, arranger, educator, director, percussionist, panist, performing artist and much more. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - Dr. Miho Takekawa shares her reflections, experiences and views on Pan, and the steelpan art form overall.
See more

Web Posted - Monday March 29, 2021
When Steel Talks

Stage set for PanoGrama 2021

PanoGrama Founder Nevin Roach

Global -We ready fi di road! The 2021 staging of the highly-anticipated steelpan competition PanoGrama – The World Cup of Steelpan – has hit the ground running and the preliminaries are coming your way soon. The PanoGrama Entertainment team is excited to announce that audition submissions for this year’s competition more than doubled the previous staging’s total number of competitors.

The 45 participants who auditioned hailed from a whopping 13 countries, (5 more than the previous staging) including Antigua & Barbuda, Barbados, Canada, England, France, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, St. Kitts & Nevis, St. Lucia, Trinidad & Tobago, the US Virgin Islands and the USA.
See more

Web Posted - Sunday March 28, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Sadé Adams - New York, USA

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

New York, USA - She is confident in who she is, with a love for Pan and her own place within the steelband landscape. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - student and panist Sadé Adams shares her journey in Pan to date: her perspectives and dreams - unfiltered, all relative to the steelband art form.
See more

Web Posted - Sunday March 28, 2021
Trinidad and Tobago Newsday

Kim Johnson′s Illustrated Story celebrates power, glory of steelpan in Trinidad and Tobago

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - Dr. Kim Johnson with a copy of the second edition of his book, The Illustrated Story of Pan.

He explained that he attempted to grapple with the problems facing pan in TT, including “the delusions of people of influence,” and discussed how some of the issues could be addressed. He said pan was extremely popular in its heyday and everyone wanted to be involved in some way. Now, many young people were not interested in pan. A lot of them were paid to play and if they did not get their money, they would walk away.
See more

Web Posted - Sunday March 28, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Tiajuana Hernandez - Trinidad and Tobago

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - She’s a passionate proponent of the steelband art form. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks, Tiajuana Hernandez does not hesitate to speak her mind as she shares her experiences, opinions, reflections and dreams on Pan, and the steelband art form overall.
See more

Web Posted - Saturday March 27, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Denise Hernandez - Trinidad & Tobago

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - A scholar, an intellect, a musician, administrator, planner, educator, mentor and motivator - are some of the words one can use to describe Denise Hernandez, one of the most influential and important figures in the steelpan movement in Trinidad and Tobago.
See more

Web Posted - Saturday March 27, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Emily Lemmerman - Austin, Texas

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Austin, Texas, USA - She is both a respected tuner, builder and player. She has lived and experienced the challenge of Trinidad Panorama and the US school system. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks, Emily Lemmerman shares her experiences and extraordinary journey with the steelpan.
See more

Web Posted - Saturday March 27, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Delphina James - United Kingdom

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

United Kingdom - Fascinated with the steelpan instrument from an early age - the musically-gifted Delphina taught herself to read music. In an exclusive with When Steel Talks Delphina, gives us a look into what drives her passion for the Pan - from the UK to Trinidad.
See more

Web Posted - Saturday March 27, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Lakeisha Danglade - Brooklyn, New York

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Brooklyn, New York - She is one of Brooklyn’s finest panists. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - panist, performing artist and passionate music educator Lakeisha Danglade shares her reflections, experiences and views on Pan, and the steelpan art form overall.
See more

Web Posted - Saturday March 27, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Krystal Nestor - St. Lucia

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

St. Lucia, W.I. - Pan is simply her life. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - panist, manager, performing artist, educator and arranger Krystal Nestor shares her reflections, experiences and views on Pan, and the steelpan art form overall.
See more

Web Posted - Saturday March 27, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Isoke Noel - Trinidad & Tobago

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - ...there is no doubt that her passion for Pan is off the charts. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - the immensely-talented Isoke Noel shares her reflections, experiences and views on Pan, and the steelpan art form overall.
See more

Web Posted - Saturday March 27, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Janet Zahradka Reiner - Virginia, USA

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Virginia, USA - She has been smitten with the steelpan music art form and Pan culture. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - panist, performing artist and educator Janet Zahradka Reiner shares her reflections, experiences and views on Pan, and the steelpan art form overall.
See more

Web Posted - Thursday March 25, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Jalissa Lynch - Brooklyn, New York

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

New York, USA - She who feels it knows it. It’s part of her DNA and in her blood. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - panist and performing artist Jalissa Lynch shares her reflections, experiences and views on Pan, and the steelpan art form overall.
See more

Web Posted - Thursday March 25, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Alanna White - Trinidad & Tobago

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Trinidad & Tobago - In an arena where only first names are needed to be instantly recognized and associated with greatness like Max and Sheila E. -- Alanna intends to add her name to the mix and let her talent and drumming do her talking for full admission. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - Alanna White, drummer for Nadia Batson with SASS, also an award-wining steelpan musician and performing artist - shares her reflections, experiences and views on Pan, and the steelpan art form overall.
See more

Web Posted - Thursday March 25, 2021
When Steel Talks

Meet Yoko Takano - Yokohama, Japan

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

 

Japan - “ ...people in the world are connected through pan, enjoying music, and where we are making a future.”

The sound of the pan gives her energy and makes her feel alive; Pan is her passion. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - Japanese panist Yoko Takano shares her feelings, experiences, and insights into the Steelband music art form and more.
read more

Web Posted - Thursday March 25, 2021
When Steel Talks

Remembering Cecil “Pious” Atherton - RIP

Master Percussionist

Global - The late Cecil “Pious” Atherton was one of the most gifted percussionists out of the Caribbean.  In addition to his live performance work with New York′s Metro and Pantonic Steel Orchestras, his studio work includes some of the greatest Soca hits of this generation. Within his discography are classics such as “Doh Back Back” by Sparrow, and “Lorraine” by Explainer. Indeed, an outstanding catalog of musical recordings that covers such noted artists like Shadow, Designer, Blue Boy, Swallow, Poser, Merchant, Nelson and many others. Click link below to see much more.
See more

Web Posted - Thursday March 25, 2021
When Steel Talks

International Pan Ramajay Competition Returns for 2021

Saturday 12th June, 2021 – Saturday 10th July, 2021

Global - Pan Ramajay is a steelpan event which was established and produced in 1989 by Republic Bank Exodus Steel Orchestra. Its primary objective is to provide a platform for steelpan musicians to showcase their skills.

This competition is open to steelpan musicians internationally, regardless of time zone/country and is designed to feature soloists, duos, quartets and ensembles using any instrument in the steelpan family. The ensemble category must use a minimum of six to a maximum of eight musicians, which may also include percussion instruments.
See Rules & Regulations

Web Posted - Wednesday March 24, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Syanne Fleming - New York, USA

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

New York, USA - Through pan, dance and awareness of the power of culture, Syanne Fleming lives experiences of performing arts in a very real, tangible, transformative and sometimes completely unexpected, magnificent way. She understands that the life of her community is intrinsically connected and totally encompasses the emotional and intellectual well-being of the people. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks Syanne Fleming shares her love for the arts and culture, the steelpan instrument, its music, the art form and more.
See more

Web Posted - Wednesday March 24, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Florence “Flo” Ghany - Trinidad & Tobago

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - She is a veteran panist who has seen and experienced both sides of the coin as a player and as a member of management as part of the world-renowned Invaders Steel Orchestra. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks, Florence “Flo” Ghany shares her experiences, views, reflections and dreams on Pan, and the steelband art form overall.
See more

Web Posted - Tuesday March 23, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Girl Pat ------ Beryl, Pat and Pat

by Von Martin from his book “Voices of Pan Pioneers of Trinidad & Tobago”

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - Mrs. Holman spoke admirably of her son Ray’s playing the pan, despite her brothers’ earlier protests. She said, “Well, at the time I couldn’t feel anything, I just felt it was a past time. He liked it and I became lenient and allowed him to do it and just left it at that. Well, after years when he started to show there was something musically in him, I became interested and listened on, and eventually when he excelled and won the competition, I was very proud.”

...we need to pay tribute also to the women in the background in the early days of the steel band movement – the mothers, wives, sisters, girl friends – providers for their men many of whom never experienced regular wage employment, the patrons. Like the Unknown Soldiers, most of these women are nameless.
See more

Web Posted - Monday March 22, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Kerry-Ann Wright - Toronto, Canada

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Toronto, Canada - She is an entrepreneur, a craftsman and innovator. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - multitalented dancer, instructor, designer and musician Kerry-Ann Wright shares her intellect, optimism, expectations and views on the Steel Pan music art form in Toronto and more.
See more

Web Posted - Monday March 22, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Louise McIntosh of the Pan Pipers Music School - Trinidad & Tobago

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - She was a former student of the great music Winifred Atwell. And as the founder of and an educator at the Pan Pipers Music School, Louise McIntosh provided the entree point and stepping stone to the careers of many great Trinidad and Tobago musicians.
See more

Web Posted - Monday March 22, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Debi Gardner - United Kingdom

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

United Kingdom - She is simply ready and can-do! Bringing the full package to the table - administrator, organizer and musician Debi Gardner talks about her fantastic journey with the Steelpan in an exclusive on When Steel Talks.
See more

Web Posted - Sunday March 21, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Tressy Edwards - Trinidad & Tobago

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - Full of pride and joy over her Phase II membership, veteran panist Tressy Edwards shares her love for music, the artform and more in an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks.
See more

Web Posted - Sunday March 21, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Tamika Alexander - New York, USA

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

 

New York, USA - After ten years with one of New York’s powerhouse steel orchestras, Tamika Alexander could be described as being ‘Despers USA to the bone!’ She is impassioned about, as she calls him “My big time Arranger! Odie Franklin” of Despers, while also cherishing arranger Marc Brooks, who gave her her first lessons on the instrument at age six. For Tamika, it’s all about her love for the steelband and her ‘Pan’ family.

In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - the dedicated performing artist talks about her journey in pan to date, and hopes for the future of the steelband art form and community.
read more

Web Posted - Sunday March 21, 2021
Trinidad and Tobago Newsday

Relocate us but don't push pan out of this prime spot: Ramsey-Moore

Pan Trinbago President, Beverley Ramsey-Moore, speaks to the media at the demolished Ministry of Works Building, Steve Archibar Street, San Fernando on Friday

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - Days after Hatters Steel Orchestra was told again that it would be temporarily housed opposite its panyard on Lady Hailes Avenue, San Fernando, the Ministry of Works building earmarked for its relocation is being demolished.

A meeting scheduled for Friday, to map out how the relocation would take place, between Hatters' executive and a Udecott official, was rescheduled to next Tuesday.

....Pan Trinbago president Beverley Ramsey-Moore said she is looking forward to this meeting as the band is on the verge of becoming homeless, since its present base is also scheduled for demolition to make way for the San Fernando Waterfront Development.

....“Based on what I am hearing from this side (Hatters), they were promised to be housed here (MOWT building) temporarily – and right after the promise was made, the demolition started. I think this is unfair.”
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Web Posted - Saturday March 20, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Zaynab Wilson - Montreal, Canada

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

 

Montreal, Canada - She is good... Real good and setting a new tempo. In an exclusive, When Steel Talks (WST) speaks to musician Zaynab Wilson of Montreal.

Zaynab is a panist, percussionist, drummer and vocalist, and has been the anchor for the Salah Wilson’s Steelpan Academy for a number of years.
See more

Web Posted - Saturday March 20, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Ronica Gordon - Trinidad and Tobago

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

 

Trinidad and Tobago, W.I. - She has had many rewarding experiences through her life long association with the steelpan instrument. In addition she has been a member of a couple of the greatest steel orchestras in the history of Trinidad and Tobago Pan. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - panist Ronica Gordon shares her experiences, views, reflections and dreams on Pan, and the steelpan art form overall.
See more

Web Posted - Friday March 19, 2021
When Steel Talks

TTPS say Killer of Japanese Panist Asami Nagakiya was killed in police shootout

TTPS Closes Case in Death of Asami Nagakiya

 

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - The Cold Case Unit of the Trinidad and Tobago Police Service (TTPS) has closed the case relating to the death of Japanese panist, Asami Nagakiya.

Ms. Nagakiya’s body was found in the Queen’s Park Savannah on February 10^th, 2016. A post-mortem revealed that she was strangled. Following a review of the evidence on March 18^th, 2021, Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Roger Gaspard expressed satisfaction that the investigation was thoroughly done. He concluded that all the evidence pointed to one suspect, David Allen who was killed in a police-involved shooting on December 12^th, 2016, in Woodbrook.
See more

Web Posted - Friday March 19, 2021
When Steel Talks

Generation Next to the Rescue - Steelpan in Focus

Duvone Stewart & Crew Look to Meet the Challenge and Fix it...

 

Global - ....Recently - musician standout, panist and champion arranger for the world-renowned Renegades Steel Orchestra, Duvone Stewart, shared on his weekly live internet broadcast “The Steelpan Chronicles,” that he had been severely suffering from one of these recurring nightmares/daymares. Cold sweat-inducing, headache-throbbing, heart-palpitating and sprit-chilling manifestation of a dream state-reality centered around the past, present and future condition of the steelpan music art form affairs.

Duvone’s very passionate plea brought laser-focus and attention to issues and circumstances that were not only affecting him negatively, personally - but also those wreaking havoc on many throughout the world. Rather than just suffering peacefully, he sought a solution to these problems. In this regard he invited an international panel of experienced steelpan musicians with years of various leadership, managerial and administrative skill sets - to identify issues and concerns.
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Web Posted - Thursday March 18, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Indira Amaya Lizárraga - Xalapa, Mexico

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

 

Xalapa, Mexico - “...we are the first steel band here in Mexico, so there’s no to much people playing steel drum in our country, but I trust in our work and I can tell, that the future of the steel drum in Mexico will be huge in a few years...”

She is a career musician studying orchestral percussion. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - panist, percussionist and performing artist Indira Amaya Lizárraga shares her reflections, experiences and views on Pan, and the steelpan art form overall.
See more

Web Posted - Tuesday March 16, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Laéticia Walker - New York/Saint Vincent

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

 

New York, USA/Saint Vincent, W.I. - She is an intellect whose ultimate destination is medical school. However, what is abundantly clear is that along that journey Pan and the music of the steel orchestra will be constant companions. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - panist Laéticia Walker shares her feelings, experiences, and love for the Steelband music art form and more.
See more

Web Posted - Tuesday March 16, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Anesha Carbon - United Kingdom

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

 

United Kingdom - She is a veteran core member of UK’s champion Ebony Steel Band with something to say. Moreover she is well beyond being just a Pan enthusiast and player. So Listen Up! as Anesha Carbon, in an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - shares her feelings, experiences, and insight into the Steelband music art form and more.
See more

Web Posted - Tuesday March 16, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Diane Thomas - Indiana, USA

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

 

Indiana, USA - A voice with uncommon beauty spoke to her years ago. It was indeed unconditional love at first contact. Years later the love affair continues, and is as intense as ever. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - Diane Thomas shares her feelings, experiences, and passion for Steelband music art form and more.
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Web Posted - Tuesday March 16, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Nakiya Athina de Freitas - Antigua

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

 

Antigua & Barbuda, W.I. - “I would tell any young female panist to go for it. If it’s something you love and enjoy, don’t let anything deter you from that passion. You will face many ups and downs and you will feel like giving up, but just keep going.”

She is focused, driven and extremely talented. And represents the future of Pan. She is a music major who has firm ideas on the way forward in Pan. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - Nakiya Athina de Freitas shares her feelings, experiences, and insight into the Steelband music art form and more.
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Web Posted - Tuesday March 16, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Devon Cumberbatch - Maryland, USA

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

 

Maryland, USA - Pan is a significant part of her heritage and her story. And within the steelpan artform she experiences her yesterday, today and tomorrow in a real and tangible way. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - writer and panist Devon Cumberbatch shares her cross-continental experiences and insight into the Steelband music art form and more.
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Web Posted - Tuesday March 16, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Clara Ozanne - France

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

France - She fell in love with Pan as a child when Pan‘n’Co Steelband’s founding members visited her school in France. There has been no looking back as her pan passion has only grown, and Clara Ozanne is now unmistakable when playing her signature pink tenor. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks and ten years later, Clara shares her feelings, experiences, and dreams relative to the Steelband music art form and more.
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Web Posted - Tuesday March 16, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Nakita Wilfred - Barbados

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Barbados, W.I. - The steelpan instrument, in this case, the Tenor, is like oxygen for her. Pan is Nakita Wilfred; Nakita Wilfred is Pan. And that pretty much tells the story right there. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - Nakita “Empress Sadé” Wilfred explains why Pan is the joy of her life, and in addition shares her feelings, experiences, and insight into the Steelband music art form and more.
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Web Posted - Tuesday March 16, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Ivor Shatal Francis - St. Lucia

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

St. Lucia, W.I. - She has been very passionate about her involvement in Pan at every stage. As the first female captain in her country of a champion steel orchestra, panist Ivor Shatal Francis has been afforded a unique vantage point of the art form in St. Lucia. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - she shares her outlooks, success, experiences, and insight into the Steelband music art form and more.
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Web Posted - Monday March 15, 2021
Trinidad and Tobago Newsday

Exodus manager: Stealing from panyard is stealing from God

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - Manager of the Exodus Steel Orchestra Ainsworth Mohammed has condemned a break-in at the band's Tunapuna panyard in which several tools were stolen, likening the act to “a theft from God.”

Speaking with Newsday on Monday, Mohammed confirmed there had been a break-in sometime on Sunday night. He said while renovations were being done at the band's Eastern Main Road panyard, several tools belonging to the contractor were stolen.

He also believed some instruments were missing, but could not confirm that up to Monday afternoon.

He said the crime was unfortunate and noted that panyards were not the usual targets for bandits, though he said, “This is the second time we had a break-in at this panyard. The last time was sometime last year. And it's strange, because you wouldn't really expect panyards to be targeted by bandits.
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2020 Trinidad and Tobago National Steelband Panorama Info - Complete

Global - PanOnTheNet/ WhenSteelTalks is Panorama Central! Complete information on the 2020 season of the Trinidad and Tobago National Panorama, and competitions:  Schedules, Orders of Appearance for preliminary, semi-final and final phases for large, medium and small conventional steel orchestras, and single pan bands; arrangers’ bios, bios of steel orchestras; full results, panyard addresses, history of previous Panoramas, and much more!
see complete information index

Web Posted - February 2020
When Steel Talks

Complete Summary of Results of all Conventional Steel Orchestras - 2020 Trinidad & Tobago National Panorama

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - At a glance and on a single page, access the comprehensive summary of results for the Small, Medium and Large conventional steel orchestras that participated in their respective categories in the 2020 Panorama.

Follow the musical journey of respective bands through all three phases - compare side-by-side preliminaries, semi-finals and finals through data on band info, scores, tunes of choice and arrangers - on one page.
access full summary