By Sue-Ann Wayow
IN commemoration of the inaugural World Steelpan Day today (Friday, August 11, 2023), the presidential band included the steelpan in its list of instruments.
The “pan around the neck” was the forefront instrument played to usher in the presence of President Christine Kangaloo on Friday with tenor pannists being included for the first time.
August 11 was declared World Steelpan Day by the United Nations this year.
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Also on Friday, the president was the guest of honour at an event hosted by the Siparia Deltones Institute of Steel Drums & Music at the Ellis Knights Pan Complex.
The celebration showcased cultural heritage while commemorating the global impact of the steel pan instrument.
The event also highlights the unique panyard module that the Deltones Institute has developed, which includes: music education, environment, agriculture, entrepreneurship, heritage preservation & restoration, art and craft, cultural exchange and festival development.
Prior to Friday’s celebration, “Railway Pizza” was the latest addition to a host of activities at the Siparia Deltones’ Panyard this week.
Located on Railway Road, Siparia, the panyard was once the last stop for the train from Port of Spain and Deltones hosted a “pan and pizza” event to highlight the significance of the instrument and location.
The UN posted on its website on Friday, “The steelpan possesses cultural and historical significance and correlates to cultural, social and economic development. It also has the potential in advance the Sustainable Development Goals, through its use in sectors such as tourism, culture, education, as well as science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics.”
It also stated, “Acknowledging that the steelpan promotes inclusive societies, sustainable communities and the creative economy and can have a positive impact on mental health and well-being, gender equality and youth empowerment, the General Assembly decided to proclaim 11 August as World Steelpan Day.”
“The Assembly invited stakeholders to observe World Steelpan Day, through activities aimed at raising awareness of the cultural and historical significance of the steelpan as well as its link to sustainable development.”
