Steelpans - (also known as steeldrums or pans, and sometimes collectively with musicians as a steelband) is a musical instrument and a form of music originating from Trinidad. It is the only musical instrument invented in the 20th century and the music has evolved tremendously since its inception. The steel pannists incorporate all genres of music (e.g Jazz and Classical) and steelbands have sprung up in a number of countries ranging from Japan to Sweden. Major institutions have commenced the study of the instruments and encourage the music and provide teaching facilities worldwide. Trinidadians are pleased to see their national instrument enjoyed and appreciated by all.

Arite.. now that allyuh have a basic understanding of Trinidad’s national instrument, we can proudly introduce the 12th Annnual Steelband Showcase held at Leah Posluns Theatre in uptown Toronto. This amazing program was brought to us by the Pan Arts Network which consisted of Wendy Jones, Earl La Pierre, Andrew Jackson, Elton Jones (MC) and Ivor Pico (stage manager). We were happy to be able to experience with fellow steel pan-lovers. Ah tellin’ yuh, this program was so nice that they had to have it twice yes! So if yuh missed the first show yuh definitely making the last! TJJ couldn’t make it to the 2:30pm show due to certain circumstances. HANGOOOOOVER! LOL! But we rounded up de crew from all over de city and took a drive to ketch the 7:30pm show.

Photos By Kerra R.
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We arrived jes before 7pm, in time to mix and mingle and grab a bake and saltfish and ah cold solo n vibes. They were selling pholorie, pelau with some bess salad and some cold Carib’s (TnT's national beer) to wash it all down. We organised early so we cud get de perfect view and once the audience was seated the show commenced immediately - which we like! Now tonight’s show was really special because Duvone Stewart and Liam Teague (steelpan soloists) were performing for the first time together at Snowflakes on Steel. They were backed by the jammin’ band Bruce Skerritt and The Liamuiga Project. We also had Afropan Steel Band, Panatics Steel Band and Pan Fantasy (local Toronto steelpan bands) bringing us a great show.

The first ting to be heard for the night was an uplifting performance by Janice Williams. She graced the stage and her voice was that of an angel. Afropan whose been in the business for 35 years then accompanied her on stage dressed in robes like the choir at church on a Sunday. The sweet sounds of the steelpan filled the air and yuh couldn’t help but feel goosebumps all over yuh body! Panatics then came on stage lookin’ rel sharp and made de vibes sweeter with even more sweet music including a nice classical piece.

Next up was Pan Fantasy and they were huuuge - lol - their members filled the entire stage area. So we knew how nice the sounds was goin’ to be ah’ready! They played a variety of music and their energy was very addictive. We were definitely ready for some solo action after that though. After a brief intermission to grab ah quick snack (i.e. adult beverage.. lol), two awards were presented. The Pan Pioneer Award was presented to Patrick Arnold and Nadine Herman received the Woman in Pan Award. Prizes were also given to members in the audience who had the lucky “ticket. Steelpan soloist Liam Teague (also a professor at Northern Illinois University) was quickly set up on stage right after and the second part of the show began. He performed an amazing acapella piece which had the crowd in a frenzy and played back to back songs that showcased his musical talent. Duvonne Stewart then followed up with a spectacular performance. People were out of their seats clapping and shaking their behinds as he sang (YES SANG) James Brown’s hit “It Feels Good!” The TJJ crew couldn’t help but put down the camera and join in. Ah mean, we like to lime too, eh! He performed hit after hit and EVERYONE was grooving, he even had the steelpan on the floor and was still producing amazing sounds. The audience was definitely moved and there was NO better way to leave the venue than knowing you got your money’s worth.

After mixin’ in with some ole’ talk we grabbed a “night” snack for de road and ATTEMPTED to leave the venue. That didn’t work out because like de usual Trini's, they always want to lime! Yuh know how it goes!! *lol* Anyhow, after a nice Saturday evening outing we needed ah lil' small nap, so we had to make a move. We headed out the door and as we walked out, everyone that left the building looked more than satisfied.

Thanks to the Pan Arts Network, allyuh did a great job! We’re anxiously anticipating many more wonderful shows.

Ah will ketch yuh at de panyard,
Mizz Kayz