Young Pannists Urged To Protect Legacy Of National Instrument
As Trinidad and Tobago continues to celebrate the steelpan, Pan Trinbago is reminding a new generation of pannists of the responsibility they have to preserve and carry forward the national instrument.
Pan Trinbago’s annual Pan Passion Church Service and Blessing of the Flags brought together pan players, leaders and supporters in worship and celebration of the steelpan.
Highlighting the discipline built within the panyard, Pan Trinbago President Beverly Ramsey-Moore noted that it is more than a rehearsal space.
“When you walk into a panyard, you walk into a safe and sacred space. You walk into a place where music, an element of worship, is being played.”
She added that the annual church service reminds pannists of their deep connection to spirituality and the importance of giving thanks for their musical gifts.
“A steelpan musician should be passionate about giving God thanks and praise because God is the ultimate creator of the gift of music. He is the ultimate creator of our talent. He is the ultimate creator of our breath. Expressing deep gratitude transforms the musician’s heart, unlocks spiritual breakthrough and honours the spiritual source behind every rhythm, behind every melody.”
Offering words of inspiration, Representative of the Inter-Religious Organisation of Trinidad and Tobago Anthony Hughes urged young players and arrangers to recognise the legacy passed down to them.
“These are the ancestors now that is living inside of you, young people and young arrangers. You have to preserve this, your legacy, and keep it safe.”
Held as part of August Fest and Steelpan Month, the Pan Trinbago tradition also served as a time to reflect on the values and legacy of the pan movement.
