An in-depth interview with Beverly Ramsey-Moore, President of Pan Trinbago What is the role of Pan Trinbago? Pan Trinbago is the World Governing Body for Steelpan, dedicated to preserving and advancing the culture of the Steelpan and its musicians. The organisation plays a vital role in organising events and competitions, allowing Steelpan players to showcase their exceptional talent on both national and international stages. Pan Trinbago is the World Governing Body for Steelpan Music and its associated culture, with its primary role being to promote, develop, and preserve the art form. As a representative organisation, Pan Trinbago advocates for the interests of over 300 registered Steelbands and over 8000 pannists, both within Trinidad and Tobago and internationally. The organisation is instrumental in organising major events such as Panorama, the Trinidad and Tobago National Steelband Music Festival, Steelpan is More Beautiful 2024 Canopeum Amoris-A Canopy of Love, the World Steelpan Festival, Steelpan Month, and Pan and Powder among other Steelband events which celebrate and elevate the Steelpan’s cultural significance. Additionally, Pan Trinbago is deeply involved in educational initiatives, ensuring that the rich heritage of Steelpan music is passed on to future generations. It also engages in cultural diplomacy, using the Steelpan as a tool for fostering international relations and cultural exchange. The organisation works closely with government bodies, corporate sponsors, and other stakeholders to ensure the sustainable development and global recognition of the Steelpan as a vital part of Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural identity. What are your thoughts on pan being the national instrument officially? As the president of Pan Trinbago, I am deeply honoured and elated that the Steelpan has been officially recognised as the national instrument of Trinidad and Tobago. This recognition is a monumental achievement for our nation and for the global pan community. It affirms the Steelpan’s role not just as a symbol of our cultural identity but also as a testament to our resilience, creativity, and innovation. This official status amplifies the importance of preserving and promoting the Steelpan as an art form, while also pushing us to think about its future. It motivates us to invest even more in education, infrastructure, and opportunities for our young pannists, ensuring that the legacy of the Steelpan continues to thrive. This recognition also strengthens our resolve to share the magic of the Steelpan with the world, solidifying its place on the global stage as a truly unique and powerful instrument. What is the purpose of Panorama? Panorama is the heartbeat of Steelpan energy, serving as the ultimate celebration of Trinidad and Tobago’s rich musical heritage. As the premier Steelband competition in the world, Panorama showcases the unparalleled talent and creativity of our pannists, who pour their passion into performances that captivate audiences both locally and globally. For Pan Trinbago, the purpose of Panorama extends beyond the competition itself. It is a vital cultural tourism product that draws visitors from around the world to Trinidad and Tobago, the Mecca of Steelpan. This event not only highlights the artistry and innovation of our Steelbands but also fosters a deep sense of national pride and cultural unity. Panorama is a platform where the spirit of our people and the vibrant energy of our culture come to life. It plays a crucial role in sustaining the Steelpan art form, providing opportunities for education, employment, and community engagement. Through Panorama, Pan Trinbago aims to preserve and promote the legacy of the Steelpan, ensuring that it remains a symbol of our national identity and a source of inspiration for future generations. Do you think that the Panorama competition is still relevant? Please explain Absolutely, Panorama remains a cornerstone of Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival season, playing a pivotal role as one of its main economic and social drivers. The competition is not only a celebration of Steelpan music but also a significant contributor to the cultural and economic vibrancy of the nation. From an economic perspective, Panorama generates substantial revenue through tourism, media coverage, and associated events, creating numerous opportunities for local businesses and artists alike. The influx of visitors and the increased media attention during the competition boost the economy, making Panorama an essential component of Trinidad and Tobago’s Carnival landscape. Socially, Panorama continues to hold immense relevance as it unites communities, fosters cultural pride, and provides a platform for creative expression. The competition brings together diverse groups, promoting a sense of community and shared heritage. It also serves as an inspiration for young musicians and fosters the development of future talent. As President of Pan Trinbago, I consistently emphasise that the Steelpan is a powerful vehicle for social transformation. Panorama plays a crucial role in this transformation by empowering the Steelband community and fostering youth development. Panorama not only preserves our cultural heritage but also offers invaluable opportunities for our youth. By providing mentorship and engaging communities, it serves as a positive alternative to crime, boosting resilience and self-esteem among young people. This engagement extends to over 8,000 pannists and arrangers, creating significant economic opportunities. Moreover, Panorama’s Adjudication Structure, which follows the Panyard Model, ensures that the preliminaries are hosted within the Panyards. This approach strengthens Panyard communities, supports intergenerational family bonds, and preserves cultural art forms. Pan Trinbago underscores the transformative impact of Steelpan music, especially on our youth. By nurturing creativity, instilling discipline, and fostering a strong sense of community pride, Panorama actively shapes future leaders and guides them away from criminal influences. Beyond being an entertainment platform, Panorama is a catalyst for positive change, providing our youth with a sense of purpose, belonging, and pride. The immersive experience of Steelpan music offers solace, inspiration, and hope, forging connections that overcome the challenges of their environment. In essence, cultural platforms like Panorama not only celebrate our heritage but also serve as essential tools in shaping a generation resilient to adversity, offering hope, empowerment, and positivity for Trinidad and Tobago’s youth. In summary, Panorama remains as relevant as ever, enriching our cultural tapestry and contributing significantly to the economic and social fabric of Carnival. Pan Trinbago is committed to ensuring that Panorama continues to thrive and evolve, preserving its legacy while embracing the future. What is the theme for this year’s World Steelpan Day? This year’s World Steelpan Day, celebrated on August 11th, is marked by a significant theme: “From Roots to Recognition: Steelpan’s Journey to Global Acclaim.” This theme reflects the Steelpan’s rich heritage and its remarkable ascent to global prominence. The World Steelpan Festival, hosted by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Arts in collaboration with Pan Trinbago ran from August 5th to present day, provides an exceptional platform for highlighting the global significance of the Steelpan. This event not only underscores the instrument’s unique cultural heritage but also fosters unity and collaboration among pan enthusiasts worldwide. As President of Pan Trinbago, I am pleased to witness two monumental Steelband festivals taking place concurrently this August. This event marks the first anniversary of the UN declaration of World Steelpan Day on August 11th and highlights the recent designation of the Steelpan as the legal national instrument of Trinidad and Tobago through Act 13 of 2024. We extend our profound appreciation to Senator the Honourable Randall Mitchell, Minister of Tourism, Culture, and the Arts, for his exceptional leadership and steadfast commitment to advancing the Steelpan’s prominence. His efforts have been instrumental in achieving these landmark milestones for the Steelpan community. These significant achievements also align with our observance of Steelpan Month in August 2024. The festival’s theme, “From Roots to Recognition,” aptly captures the journey of the Steelpan from its origins to its esteemed status on the global stage. It is an honour to celebrate this milestone and to continue advancing the Steelpan’s legacy through such prestigious events. What is your vision for Steelpan? As President of Pan Trinbago, my vision for the Steelpan is to lead it into an era of technological innovation, digital transformation, and global recognition. Our goal is to ensure that the Steelpan not only preserves its rich heritage but also evolves in response to contemporary technological advancements. The Steelpan movement in Trinidad and Tobago has always been at the forefront of cultural and artistic expression. To continue this trajectory, we envision a future where the Steelpan harnesses the power of technology and digitisation to reach new heights. This involves integrating cutting-edge digital tools and platforms to enhance the performance, composition, and dissemination of Steelpan music. Key aspects of this vision include: Technology Integration: Embracing technological innovations such as electronic Steelpans and advanced sound systems to expand the creative possibilities for composers and performers. This will enable Steelpan music to blend seamlessly with other genres and contemporary styles, reaching diverse audiences globally. Digital Platforms: Utilising digital platforms to promote Steelpan music through online streaming, virtual performances, and interactive media. This will not only increase accessibility but also engage a global audience, fostering a broader appreciation for the art form. Digitisation of Resources: Developing digital archives and educational resources to preserve and disseminate the history, techniques, and cultural significance of the steelpan. This will support educational initiatives and ensure that future generations have access to comprehensive knowledge about the instrument. Global Collaboration: Strengthening international partnerships and collaborations to elevate the Steelpan’s status on the world stage. By leveraging digital networks and platforms, we can facilitate cross-cultural exchanges and showcase the steelpan’s unique contributions to global music. Sustainability and Growth: Promoting sustainable practices within the Steelpan movement to ensure its long-term growth and development. This includes fostering innovation while maintaining the integrity and authenticity of the Steelpan tradition. Our vision is to create a dynamic and interconnected Steelpan ecosystem that honours our heritage while embracing the future. By advancing technology and digital transformation, we aim to ensure that the Steelpan remains a vibrant, relevant, and celebrated instrument both locally and globally. How did the National Steelband Music Festival start? The Trinidad and Tobago National Steelband Music Festival began as a significant cultural event designed to showcase the burgeoning talent of Steelpan musicians across the island. The inaugural festival took place on March 16, 1948, at the Prince’s Building and the Royal Victoria Institute (RVI) and spanned five days. The Prince’s Building, constructed in 1861, was named in anticipation of a visit from Prince Albert, Duke of Edinburgh, while the RVI, built in 1892, was named to honour Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee. By 1950, the festival had expanded to a fortnight, prompting English-born Helen May Johnstone and the Trinidad Music Association to advocate for a purpose-built concert hall, leading to the creation of Queen’s Hall. Helen’s dedication to music in Trinidad was instrumental, and she insisted that Steelpan music be included in the festival. In 1952, Steelpans made their debut at the festival, held at the Roxy Theatre, thanks in part to the success of TASPO’s European tour and support from the National Association of Trinidad and Tobago Steelbandsmen. That year, Boys Town Steel Orchestra won the Steelpan category with their performance of “Under the Marabella Bridge” and “You Are My Heart’s Delight.” The 1950s marked a pivotal era for the Steelpan, with educated middle-class individuals forming new steelbands like Dixieland and Girl Pat, which enhanced the instrument’s social acceptance. Innovations such as Anthony Williams’s idea to suspend the pans on stands, rather than around the neck or knees, further advanced the Steelpan’s development. This period also saw the introduction of double seconds, guitars, and bass, along with improvements in the range and tone of the instruments. In 1964, the Steelband Music Festival became a standalone competition due to rising interest in Steelpan music. The inaugural competition, held at Queen’s Hall, was won by West Side Symphony Steel Band with their performance of “Roses from the South.” Other participating bands included Angostura Starliff, Chase Manhattan Savoys, Shell Invaders, Guinness Cavaliers, Metronomes, Tripoli Steel Band, Coca Cola Gay Desperadoes, Dixie Harps, Wonderland, and Stereophonics. The soloist competition was won by Ray Holman. The festival attracted international attention over the years, evolving into a global competition. In 1980, the event was renamed “Pan is Beautiful,” reflecting the growing recognition of the Steelpan’s artistic value. By 1988, the festival had expanded into the World Steelband Music Festival, with participants from Venezuela, Guyana, Sweden, and Trinidad. The inaugural world festival was won by Exodus Steel Orchestra. In 2000, the competition featured participants from the United States, England, Sweden, Finland, France, Switzerland, Grenada, St. Lucia, and Trinidad. Skiffle Bunch Steel Orchestra triumphed with “In the Rain Forest” and “Pan by Storm,” while BWIA Ebony from England placed fourth. After an 11-year hiatus, the Trinidad and Tobago National Steelband Music Festival, Steelpan is More Beautiful 2024 made a triumphant return with a focus on classical music. This event is proudly hosted under the esteemed patronage of Dr. the Honourable Keith Rowley, Prime Minister of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. This revival has allowed Steelpan enthusiasts to experience a blend of classical and Steelpan performances, celebrating the versatility and creativity of the Steelpan. The festival, alongside the World Steelpan Festival, continues to highlight the global significance of the steelpan while reinforcing Trinidad and Tobago’s rich cultural heritage. Pan Trinbago proudly acknowledges the Trinidad and Tobago National Steelband Music Festival as a cornerstone of the nation’s cultural legacy, embodying unity, creativity, and excellence in Trinidad and Tobago’s vibrant musical landscape. What is the purpose for the Music Festival? The festival serves multiple vital functions within Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural landscape: Showcase Talent: It provides a premier platform for Steelbands to display their musical talent and creativity, celebrating the skill and artistry of musicians from emerging talents to seasoned performers.Promote Cultural Heritage: The festival plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural heritage by highlighting the Steelpan’s unique role in our musical tradition.Encourage Healthy Competition: By fostering a spirit of healthy competition among steelbands, the festival stimulates creativity and drives bands to continually refine their craft.Unite Communities: The event brings together individuals and communities from across the nation, creating a shared experience that strengthens social bonds and celebrates our collective identity.Support Cultural Tourism: By attracting audiences from both local and international spheres, the festival promotes Trinidad and Tobago as a vibrant cultural destination, supporting the broader tourism industry and local economy. Pan Trinbago remains committed to the continued success and evolution of the National Steelband Music Festival, ensuring it remains a cornerstone of our cultural celebration and a testament to the enduring legacy of the Steelpan. The Trinidad and Tobago National Steelband Music Festival, Steelpan is More Beautiful 2024 aims to celebrate Trinidad and Tobago’s Steelband Movement on a global stage. The event showcases its cultural significance, fosters creative linkages, supports talent development, and provides economic opportunities for Steelband artists. It also promotes inclusivity, unity, and cultural leadership within the community. Key themes and messages include: Celebrating Trinidad and Tobago’s Cultural Heritage: Highlighting the rich tradition and history of the Steelband Movement as a symbol of national pride and identity.Global Showcase of Trinidad and Tobago’s National Instrument: Emphasising the global significance of the Steelpan, showcasing its versatility and musical capabilities as a unique musical instrument from Trinidad and Tobago.Creative Linkages and International Integration: Fostering creative connections and partnerships on a global scale, enhancing Trinidad and Tobago’s presence in the international music community.Sustained Exposure and Marketability of Steelband Artists: Providing ongoing visibility and market opportunities for Steelband musicians, arrangers, and composers, both locally and internationally.Promoting Talent and Inclusivity: Showcasing the talent of musicians from all ages and backgrounds, promoting inclusivity and unity within Trinidad and Tobago’s diverse communities.Revitalising Cultural Events: Emphasising the role of the reintroduced event, after an eleven-year hiatus, in preserving and advancing Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural heritage.Cultural Leadership and Entrepreneurial Opportunities: Contributing to cultural leadership by providing platforms for cultural expression and entrepreneurship within the Steelband community.Strengthening Domestic Entrepreneurial Capacity: Highlighting the event’s role in fostering entrepreneurial skills and opportunities for local pannists and arrangers, contributing to economic growth and sustainability.Global Awareness and Audience Reach: Increasing global awareness of Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural offerings and extending its reach to diverse audiences worldwide.Supporting Pan Trinbago’s Vision: Aligning with Pan Trinbago’s comprehensive vision for member Steelbands, emphasising collaboration and support within the Steelpan community. What have you observed now that we are resuming the festival? As Pan Trinbago resumes the Trinidad and Tobago National Steelband Music Festival- Steelpan is More Beautiful 2024 after an 11 year hiatus, we are thrilled to share several notable observations that underscore the event’s continued relevance and the growth of the Steelpan community. Elevated Quality of Music: One of the most striking developments is the consistently high quality of music being showcased. The level of musicality and artistry demonstrated by the participating bands is remarkable, reflecting a deep commitment to excellence and an evolution in the genre that enhances the overall festival experience. Influx of Young Players: We are witnessing a significant influx of young, talented musicians entering the Steelpan arena. This new generation brings fresh energy and innovative perspectives to the festival, ensuring a dynamic and vibrant atmosphere. Their participation not only rejuvenates the competition but also secures the future of the Steelpan tradition. High Standards in Execution: The execution of performances has reached new heights. Bands are demonstrating exceptional skill and precision, with each performance showcasing meticulous preparation and artistic finesse. This heightened standard is a testament to the dedication and hard work of all participants. Holistic Growth: Beyond technical proficiency, there is a noticeable emphasis on holistic development within the Steelpan community. Bands are incorporating diverse musical styles and creative arrangements, reflecting a broader understanding of music as an art form. This holistic approach enriches the festival and highlights the versatility of the Steelpan. Community Engagement: The festival continues to serve as a vital community event, fostering a sense of unity and pride. The enthusiasm and support from audiences and participants alike contribute to an atmosphere of celebration and camaraderie. Support from Government and Officials: We are also honoured by the strong support of members of parliament, ministers from both government and opposition, and other high-ranking officials who have attended the pan crawl and various festival events. Their presence not only underscores the significance of the festival but also highlights the shared commitment to celebrating and advancing Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural heritage. Their engagement and encouragement play a crucial role in elevating the festival and reinforcing the Steelpan’s place in our national identity. As we move forward with the festival, Pan Trinbago remains committed to supporting and nurturing the growth of the Steelpan community. We are excited about the future and look forward to continuing this journey with all stakeholders involved. Pan Trinbago wishes to extend its heartfelt gratitude to the Government of Trinidad and Tobago for its unwavering support and commitment to the steelpan community. Your dedication to preserving and promoting our rich musical heritage is instrumental in the success of initiatives like the National Steelband Music Festival and other key events. The government’s ongoing involvement not only fosters the growth of the Steelpan art form but also strengthens its role as a vehicle for social transformation and youth development. We deeply appreciate the partnership and look forward to continued collaboration in advancing the Steelpan’s global prominence. What do you need to make the Steelband everything you envision for it? In advancing the Steelband to its full potential, Pan Trinbago is pleased to outline the key elements required to bring our vision to fruition. Increased Investment: To elevate the Steelband to the level of excellence we envision, increased financial investment is essential. This includes funding for the development of new instruments, support for emerging talents, and resources for the enhancement of performance facilities. Financial backing from both public and private sectors will play a critical role in sustaining and expanding the steelpan movement. Enhanced Training and Development: Comprehensive training programmes and workshops are needed to nurture the skills of both new and experienced players. By investing in educational initiatives, we can ensure that our musicians are equipped with the latest techniques and knowledge, fostering innovation and maintaining high standards of performance. Broader Recognition and Support: Greater recognition of the Steelpan’s cultural and artistic value is crucial. We seek to foster stronger partnerships with government bodies, cultural institutions, and corporate sponsors to secure ongoing support and advocacy. This includes promoting the Steelpan on both national and international stages to enhance its global presence. Infrastructure Improvements: Upgrading and maintaining infrastructure, including practice spaces, performance venues, and production facilities, is vital for the growth of the Steelband. Improved facilities will support higher quality performances and provide a better environment for musicians to hone their craft. Community Engagement and Outreach: Building stronger connections with local communities and engaging with audiences is essential. By increasing public awareness and involvement, we can cultivate a broader appreciation for the Steelpan and its cultural significance. Innovation and Creativity: Encouraging innovation in musical arrangements and performance techniques will keep the Steelband dynamic and relevant. Supporting creative projects and collaborations will help in pushing the boundaries of what the Steelpan can achieve. Corporate and Government Sponsorship: Securing robust corporate and government sponsorship is pivotal for achieving our vision. We are actively seeking partnerships with businesses and government agencies that are committed to supporting cultural initiatives. Such sponsorships will provide the necessary financial resources and visibility needed to advance the Steelpan movement, enhance its global presence, and ensure the sustainability of our programmes and events. Collaboration with sponsors not only helps in achieving our goals but also fosters a greater appreciation for the Steelpan as a key element of our national heritage. What is it like having to create two huge festivals in one year? As Pan Trinbago prepares for the upcoming Trinidad and Tobago National Steelband Music Festival and the World Steelpan Festival 2024, we are keenly aware of the significance and scale of organising two major festivals within a single year. This undertaking, while challenging, also forms part of our daily duties and it’s a testament to our commitment to celebrating and advancing the Steelpan as a cornerstone of Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural heritage. Organising these festivals simultaneously requires meticulous planning, coordination, and dedication from our team. Our experienced events committee boasts extensive expertise in steelband administration, overseeing over 300 registered Steelbands. We also excel in event management for Steelband competitions, employ professional adjudicators, and handle many other crucial aspects of event logistics and execution. Each festival has its own unique objectives and audiences, and ensuring their success involves aligning resources, managing logistics, and executing detailed strategies. The Trinidad and Tobago National Steelband Music Festival, Steelpan is More Beautiful 2024 highlights local talent and fosters national pride, while the World Steelpan Festival 2024 which is currently being comanaged by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts, under Pan Trinbago’s line minister, Senator the Honourable Randall Mitchell, Minister of Tourism, Culture and the Arts, aims to elevate the Steelpan on a global stage, drawing international attention and participation. The key to managing both events effectively lie in strategic coordination and collaboration. We are leveraging our experience and expertise to create seamless integration between the two festivals. By fostering strong partnerships with stakeholders, sponsors, and volunteers, we ensure that each festival receives the attention and resources it deserves. The opportunity to highlight Trinidad and Tobago’s Steelpan legacy through both festivals is immensely rewarding. The Trinidad and Tobago National Steelband Music Festival celebrates our rich musical tradition through classical Steelpan music, while the World Steelpan Festival 2024 offers a global platform to share this heritage, featuring Soca and other diverse musical genres. Together, these events exemplify the vibrancy and significance of the Steelpan in our cultural identity. Steelpan enthusiast get the opportunity to get the best of both worlds. Pan Trinbago remains dedicated to delivering exceptional experiences for all participants and audiences. We are excited about the possibilities these festivals bring, especially Steelbands festivals, and confident in our ability to navigate the complexities involved. Our goal is to ensure that both the Trinidad and Tobago National Steelband Music Festival and the World Steelpan Festival 2024 are memorable and impactful, reinforcing the Steelpan’s place in the cultural and musical landscape.