WST Newsfeed

Breaking Global Steelpan News


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


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.


Web Posted - Monday March 29, 2021
When Steel Talks

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

Kim Johnson

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.


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

Meet Claudie Donne - Guadeloupe, Paris, France

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Claudie Donne

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.


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

Meet Dr. Miho Takekawa - Seattle, Washington

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Dr. Miho Takekawa

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.


Web Posted - Monday March 29, 2021
When Steel Talks

Stage set for PanoGrama 2021

by Dana Malcolm

PanoGrama Founder Nevin Roach
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.


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

Meet Sadé Adams - New York, USA

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Sadé Adams

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.


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.




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

Meet Denise Hernandez - Trinidad & Tobago

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Denise Hernandez

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.


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

Meet Emily Lemmerman - Austin, Texas

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Emily Lemmerman

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.


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

Meet Delphina James - United Kingdom

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Delphina James

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.


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

Meet Lakeisha Danglade - Brooklyn, New York

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Lakeisha Danglade

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.


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

Meet Krystal Nestor - St. Lucia

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Krystal Nestor

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.


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

Meet Isoke Noel - Trinidad & Tobago

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Isoke Noel

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.


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

Meet Janet Zahradka Reiner - Virginia, USA

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Janet Zahradka Reiner

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.


Web Posted - Thursday March 25, 2021
When Steel Talks

Meet Jalissa Lynch - Brooklyn, New York

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Jalissa Lynch

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.


Web Posted - Thursday March 25, 2021
When Steel Talks

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.


Web Posted - Thursday March 25, 2021
When Steel Talks

Meet Yoko Takano - Yokohama, Japan

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Yoko Takano
 
When Steel Talks Women Logo

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.


Web Posted - Thursday March 25, 2021
When Steel Talks

Remembering Cecil “Pious” Atherton - RIP

Master Percussionist

The late Cecil “Pious” Atherton

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.


Web Posted - Thursday March 25, 2021
When Steel Talks

International Pan Ramajay Competition Returns for 2021

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

International Pan Ramajay Competition Returns for 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.


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

Meet Syanne Fleming - New York, USA

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Syanne Fleming

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.


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

Meet Florence “Flo” Ghany - Trinidad & Tobago

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Florence “Flo” Ghany

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


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

Voices of Pan Pioneers of Trinidad & Tobago book cover

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.


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

Meet Kerry-Ann Wright - Toronto, Canada

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Kerry-Ann Wright

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.


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.


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

Meet Debi Gardner - United Kingdom

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Debi Gardner

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


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

Meet Tressy Edwards - Trinidad & Tobago

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Tressy Edwards

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.


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.




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

Meet Zaynab Wilson - Montreal, Canada

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Zaynab Wilson

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.


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

Meet Ronica Gordon - Trinidad and Tobago

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Ronica Gordon

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.


Web Posted - Friday March 19, 2021
When Steel Talks

Trinidad and Tobago Police Service say Killer of Japanese Panist Asami Nagakiya was killed in police shootout

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 10th, 2016. A post-mortem revealed that she was strangled. Following a review of the evidence on March 18th, 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 12th, 2016, in Woodbrook.

The DPP advised that the matter be closed.


Web Posted - Thursday March 18, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Indira Amaya Lizárraga - Xalapa, Mexico

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Indira Amaya Lizárraga

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.


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.


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

Meet Anesha Carbon - United Kingdom

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Anesha Carbon

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.


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

Meet Diane Thomas - Indiana, USA

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Diane Thomas

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.


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

Meet Nakiya Athina de Freitas - Antigua

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Nakiya Athina de Freitas

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.


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

Meet Devon Cumberbatch - Maryland, USA

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Devon Cumberbatch

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.


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

Meet Clara Ozanne - France

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Clara Ozanne of France

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.


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

Meet Nakita Wilfred - Barbados

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Nakita Wilfred

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.


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.




Web Posted - Thursday March 11, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Dr. Mia Gormandy-Benjamin - Panist, Composer, Arranger, Ethnomusicologist, Educator & Performing Artist - UpClose!

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Trinidad and Tobago, W.I. - Intelligent, immensely talented, beautiful, charismatic, articulate, focused and thoughtful - this ‘Ambassador of Pan’ represents the ultimate pan product from Trinidad and Tobago’s next generation of pan talent.


Web Posted - Wednesday March 10, 2021
When Steel Talks

Meet Sterling Betancourt MBE - Steelpan Pioneer, 1952 TASPO member, Notting Hill Carnival and more - UpClose!

a Von Martin Interview

Global - Listen to - an exclusive Von Martin–interview with Mr. Sterling Betancourt. Here is Betancourt’s story in his own words with noted author and journalist Von Martin. This interview was done in London, England at Betancourt’s home in 2000.



Web Posted - Wednesday March 10, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Christine Law - Trinidad & Tobago

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Christine Law

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - Christine Law was 81 years of age in 2017.  She was in her early 30s when she led the Wonderland Steel Band in Chaguanas, central Trinidad. She recalls her time in Trinidad and Tobago with the fondest of memories. Her most moving memory is of the whole of the Wonderland band turning up to play for them as they boarded their boat to leave Trinidad for the final time in 1967. Everyone was in tears!


Web Posted - Wednesday March 10, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Chantal Esdelle - Trinidad & Tobago

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Chantal Esdelle

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - Although she is a scholar, an intellect and a deep thinker with many awards she remains humble. Indeed, it is her deep roots, knowledge of self and conscious awareness of who we are as a people amongst her vast accomplishments - that make her so special. She is a Trinidad and Tobago treasure.

In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - panist, ethnomusicologist, musician composer, arranger and educator Chantal Esdelle gives us an honest glimpse into who she is - her observations and concerns along with her love and unrestrained passion for the culture, history, steelpan instrument, its music, the art form and more.


Web Posted - Tuesday March 9, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Alice Adams - UK

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

United Kingdom - She is insightful, daring, and committed. Her passion for Pan took from the UK to participate in the Trinidad and Tobago National Panorama. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - panist Alice Adams shares her feelings, experiences, and insight into the Steelband music art form and more. Hear her voice - feel her passion.


Web Posted - Tuesday March 9, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Crystal Noel - Trinidad & Tobago

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - She is a veteran double tenor panist for the perennial Trinidad and Tobago National Panorama Champions, Trinidad All Stars Steel Orchestra. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - Crystal Noel shares not only her love for the instrument and culture, but her personal journey and on the minimum required investment in Pan for a successful sustainable global outreach.


Web Posted - Tuesday March 9, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Daisy James-McClean - Panist, Lecturer, Pan Pioneer  - Trinidad and Tobago

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Trinidad and Tobago - Mrs. Daisy James-McClean is an award-winning female steelpan musician, whose recognized list of firsts and accomplishments within the steelband movement are both significant and staggering. She is an original (Ms. McClean started playing over 70 years ago, and just celebrated her seventy-sixth birthday) who keeps on giving to the steelpan movement, starting from its earliest, and now as the leader of Harlem Syncopators of Trinidad and Tobago


Web Posted - Tuesday March 9, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Julie Williams - Trinidad & Tobago

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Julie Williams

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - From child to adult, the steelpan instrument has been a constant love and comrade. Her love for the instrument is profound. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks, Julie Williams of Exodus Steel Orchestra Trinidad and Tobago, shares her insight, experiences and expectations for the steelpan art form.


Web Posted - Tuesday March 9, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Jryck Williams - Trinidad & Tobago

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Jryck Williams

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - She is confident, assertive, astute and forward-thinking. Moreover, she embodies all of the best ingredients you would love to have in the next generation of Pan caretakers. Jryck Williams may be young; however, her age belies her wisdom. This future lawyer brings it all to the table. We may be looking at the next great global leader of a players’ pan association or prime minister.

In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - panist Jryck Williams shares her love and vision for the steelpan instrument, its music, the art form and more.


Web Posted - Tuesday March 9, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Hazel Henley - Trinidad & Tobago

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - She was an intellectual, a Pan Pioneer, and multi-talented, thoughtful, forward-thinking and a steelband leader in an era when women were looked down upon for any association with pan. When Steel Talks spotlights panist, musician, arranger and performing artist - the late Hazel Henley, founder of “Girl Pat Steel Orchestra,” one of reportedly only two all-women steel orchestras in the 1950s in Trinidad and Tobago.


Web Posted - Tuesday March 9, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Demri Pelle - Antigua and Barbuda

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Demri Pelle of Antigua and Barbuda

Antigua & Barbuda, W.I. - Demri Pelle embodies the spirit of Pan. Far more than just an instrument to her it is an experience and life. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - she shares her love, passion and ongoing adventure with the steelpan instrument, its music, the art form and more.


Web Posted - Tuesday March 9, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Jenny Gilberg - UK

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

United Kingdom - From Panorama player to music educator - she has experienced all aspects of the Pan up close and personal. Performer, arranger, and now director - the steelpan instrument is in her blood. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks, Jenny Gilberg of New Castle upon Tyne, UK shares how the steelpan instrument has impacted her life


Web Posted - Tuesday March 9, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Natalie Wint - New York, USA

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Natalie Wint

New York, USA - She is simply one of New York’s finest panists. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - the multitalented and extremely versatile musician Natalie Wint shares her feelings, experiences, and insight into the Steelband music art form and more.


Web Posted - Tuesday March 9, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Justina Ploeger - Germany

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Justina Ploeger

Germany - She is young in age but no doubt a talented veteran panist with skills. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - Justina Ploeger shares her feelings, experiences, and love for the Steelband music art form and more.


Web Posted - Tuesday March 9, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Jossane Kerrice Felix - Trinidad & Tobago

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - She is an infectious spirit who leaps off the page and delivers breaths of unadulterated enthusiasm into the reader/listener for her story and the magic of the steelpan art form. She is forward-thinking with an open-the-door and “let’s do this - let me at it” attitude.

In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - multi-talented panist, author and performing artist sane Kerrice Felix shares her vision, experiences, and feelings for the Steelband music art form and more.


Web Posted - Tuesday March 9, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Nellie Bly - The woman behind the 55-gallon Steel Oil Drum - USA

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

USA - She was among the most famous journalists of her day as a reporter for the New York World. Less known about Nellie Bly is her role in creating the 55-gallon steel oil drum...

The 55-gallon steel drum - used practically globally, for the creation of the musical instruments of the steelpan music family - was created by Ms Bly. Although originally created for the storage of crude oil, the steel drums have been, and remain - the de facto raw material standard for the steelpan instrument.


Web Posted -  Tuesday March 9, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Teneisha Campbell - Trinidad & Tobago

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - She is a multi-talented musician, screen-writer, actor and performing artist. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - panist Teneisha Campbell shares her thoughts, experiences, opinions and viewpoints on the SteelPan music art form and more.


Web Posted - Tuesday March 9, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Winifred Atwell - Trinidad

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - She was an intellectual, a star, a child prodigy, a music Pioneer, multi-talented, thoughtful, forward-thinking and a steelpan musical collaborator in an era when women were looked down upon for any association with pan. When Steel Talks spotlights musician, performing artist, composer and world-renowned pianist extraordinaire and one of the biggest mainstream artists in British history - the late Winifred Atwell, producer of the most phenomenal steelpan music recordings ever -  the best known being Ivory and Steel.


Web Posted - Monday March 8, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Naoko Yabuta - Tokyo, Japan

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Tokyo, Japan - She doesn’t just love Pan - she breathes Pan and lives the experience of Pan. She was born and lives in Tokyo, Japan - but there is absolutely no doubt, that she is 1000% Desperadoes. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - panist and performing artist Naoko Yabuta shares her reflections, experiences and views on Pan, and the steelpan art form overall.


Web Posted - Sunday March 7, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Candice Andrews-Brumant - Trinidad and Tobago

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Candice Andrews-Brumant

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - She is one of a select few panists where only a ‘first name’ is needed for instant recognition, anywhere in the world of Pan.

In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks, Candice Andrews-Brumant, captain of the world-renowned Renegades Steel Orchestra speaks on her unbridled passion for Pan, Renegades and dreams for the steelpan movement.


Web Posted - Sunday March 7, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Zahra Lake - Antigua & Barbuda

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Antigua & Barbuda, W.I. - In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - multitalented arranger, instructor and musician Zahra Lake shares her, intellect, optimism, expectations and views on the Steel Pan music art form in Antigua & Barbuda and more.


Web Posted - Sunday March 7, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Jovanka Williams - Guyana

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Guyana, S.A. - She is a respected member of the National Steel Orchestra of Guyana. In addition she has experienced many aspects of the steelband music industry as both an educator and touring musician. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - Jovanka Williams shares her feelings, experiences, and insight into the Steelband music art form and more...


Web Posted - Sunday March 7, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Gay Magnus - Jamaica

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Jamaica, W.I. - A focused, determined, disciplined and extremely talented, musical director of UWI Panoridim, Gay Magnus brings it all to the table. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks the panist shares her love and unconcealed passion for the steelpan instrument, its music, the art form and more.


Web Posted -  Sunday March 7, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Debra “Sista Dee” Sarjeant - Massachusetts, USA

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Massachusetts, USA - The path and journey of Boston’s Debra “Sista Dee” Sarjeant were essentially sealed from birth - what with her being Denzil Botus’ daughter, and her godfather being the iconic Rudolph Charles. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - Sarjeant shares a snapshot of what has brought her to this point in Pan.


Web Posted -  Sunday March 7, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Yasmin Brito - Ontario, Canada

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Ontario, Canada -At 12 years old Yasmin Brito was playing pan in a steelband. And while the neighbors had less than kind things to say about this - she had fun. Much fun - made history by becoming one of the first of the firsts in the annals of pan - an unwitting trailblazer with memories and experiences that have lasted a lifetime.




Web Posted - Saturday March 6, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Megan-Leigh Langton-Attang - Trinidad & Tobago

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - She is a millennial. Bright, articulate, intelligent, witty and funny - and did we say multitalented. Equally at home with a video game as she is with a pan... The pan DNA looms large inside her via the genes passed on to her through her Mom. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - panist Megan-Leigh Langton-Attang shares her outstanding experiences beginning at a tender age with the steelpan instrument, its music, the art form and more.


Web Posted - Friday March 5, 2021
When Steel Talks Reboot - Feel the Music - Live the Experience

Sonatas Steel Orchestra - “Fantastic Friday” | Leon Foster Thomas | New York Panorama 2013

Cool Down Version - Basement Yard Recordings 2013

Sonatas Steel Orchestra

Brooklyn, New York, USA - It’s the annual New York Panorama. Sonatas Steel Orchestra is playing the Cool Down Version of “Fantastic Friday” - written by Austin Lyons aka “Super Blue” - and arranged by Leon Foster Thomas, for Panorama 2013.


Web Posted - Friday March 5, 2021
When Steel Talks Reboot - Feel the Music - Live the Experience

Sonatas Steel Orchestra - “Fantastic Friday” | Leon Foster Thomas | New York Panorama 2013

Tempo Version - Basement Yard Recordings 2013

Sonatas Steel Orchestra

Brooklyn, New York, USA - It’s the annual New York Panorama. Sonatas Steel Orchestra is playing the Tempo Version of “Fantastic Friday” - written by Austin Lyons aka “Super Blue” - and arranged by Leon Foster Thomas, for Panorama 2013.


Web Posted - Wednesday March 3, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Meet Wendy Jones of Toronto, Canada

Celebration of Women and the Steelpan Art Form

Wendy Jones of Toronto, Canada

Toronto, Canada - She fell in love with the steelpan instrument and the power of pan at an early age. She is a founding member of Pan Fantasy Steelband. In an exclusive interview with When Steel Talks - administrator, player and pan-mom Wendy Jones of Toronto, Canada, shares the joy of pan and how the steelpan instrument has impacted her life from a young girl, to the point of now being the mother of pan players herself.


Web Posted - Wednesday March 3, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

Clive Bradley - Memories and Current Thoughts Related to Women in the Steelpan World

Clive Bradley with Women of Pantonic Steel Orchestra

New York, USA - “The first time that I remember seeing women play Steelpan was around 1968, somewhere around there - when three women joined Desperadoes; one of them was Ursula, on the tenor pan, and she still plays with the band today. The other, Carol, played tenor pan too, and the third, whose name I can't recall right now, played the Bass. It was a sort of status symbol for those guys because there were not too many bands with women playing. They were good players. As a matter of fact, I believe that Scrunter (Owen Reyes Johnson) wrote Woman On the Bass for particularly that girl.” --- Clive Bradley


Web Posted - Tuesday March 2, 2021
When Steel Talks - Reboot

PAT BISHOP, A Person In Pan

Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - I suppose that my presence in so many panyards over the years must have rustled some masculine feathers but they have kept that a deep, dark secret from me – which is just as well since I don’t suppose that I would have taken any notice!! ” .... Pat Bishop

She is a titan among giants in the history of pan. Staying in her lane was not part of her MO. The late Pat Bishop was one of the most respected, influential and celebrated women in the steelpan movement. Holder of Trinidad & Tobago's highest award -The Trinity Cross - her accomplishments are second to none. In a When Steel Talks exclusive Pat Bishop pens her insights, feelings and life experiences for the Pan community.


Web Posted - Monday March 1, 2021
Jamaica Gleaner

2021 Carnival in Grenada - Cancelled!

Grenada Carnival 2021 Cancelled
No Carnival for 2021

St. George’s, Grenada, W.I. - Prime Minister of Grenada, Dr Keith Mitchell, has announced the cancellation of the Spicemas carnival 2021 celebrations.

Mitchell said there will be no carnival, even if 60 per cent of the population get the COVID-19 vaccine.

This will be the second consecutive year Spicemas has been cancelled due to the pandemic.




Steelpan Music Headlines

When Steel Talks breaking stories

Global - Important stories from all over the world.
Read, Watch and Listen  projector