The biography for this band is currently being developed.

C.A.I.S.O., Caribbean American International Steel Orchestra, is the hottest steel drum band in the DC and Baltimore area. Our music draws from the Calypso, Soca, Reggae, and Latin Jazz influences. The band has been in existence for over 30 years which should give you some evidence as to level of professionalism in which we work and perform. While some members have retired and others have joined, the band has sustained its high reputation these many years.

C.A.I.S.O. has headlined concert events, performed as the opening act for nationally known touring bands (such as the Beach Boys), and we are regularly booked to promote brand and product launches for major corporations. Examples of some of our recent bookings have been the opening act for the Safeway’s National Capital Barbeque Battle in DC, the Caribbean Sounds 10K Race and 5K Walk (charity event in DC), and promoting the new Caribbean influenced menu items for the national restaurant chain TGI Fridays within the DC area headlining their Caribbean Beach Bash events. We also perform for corporate events and private parties.

Our band has the experienced professionalism to provide a festive quality to an event and our reputation for providing entertainment and quality music to private weddings and celebrations is second to none. We know when to bring more attention to our performance and the guests attending the event, and when to provide support to the energy and function of the event.

DC PAN JAMMERS, Inc. was incorporated in October 1, 2003, as a not-for profit organization under the laws of the District of Columbia. The primary and exclusive purpose of this community organization was to teach individuals to play pan. Pan is a term used to describe the instruments employed by the steel band, creating a musical art form that originated in the twin-island Republic of Trinidad and Tobago

In response to a demand caused by the demise of a Washington DC Steel Orchestra, the organization, in March 2004, purchased some instruments.  The band successfully attracted several pannists who were under the age of 18 years. After intensive practice, DC Pan Jammers participated in the DC Pan Jamboree and in the DC Caribbean Carnival Parade hosted by the DC Caribbean Carnival organization in June 2004. In September 2004, DC Pan Jammers captivated both the crowd and the adjudicators at the J’Ouvert celebration at the Brooklyn Labor Day Parade.

DC Pan Jammers also performed for Howard University at its Employee Appreciation Day celebration at Paramount’s Kings Dominion Park on October 3, 2004.

This band lasted approximately two years. Led by Leslie Jordan, who was also the tuner of all of the pans.  He  manufactured a complete set of pans for the band in less than seven days.  The instruments were made on the premises of The Trinidad and Tobago Association of Washington DC (TTADC) at 1501 Delafield Place, N.W. in the garage next to the main building. The band played its gigs in Georgetown and around the DC area. The Players included leader Leslie Jordan (Double Seconds), Brian Solomon (Double Tenor), Patrick Belle {Bass}, Marlon Thorne {drums) and Brian Atcherson, (Cello).  Leslie was a talented tuner who learned his craft fron the great Anthony Williams of the famous PanAm Jet North Stars Steel orchestra, which was so successful in the 1960's.  After about two years gigging in the area, Leslie relocated to Florida, and this led to the Drums disbanded.

The East of the River Boys & Girls Steelband started in 1993 with the vision of Dr. Gladys Whitworth Bray to bring this unique musical experience to youth living east of the Anacostia River.  Over the years, the program has provided music training and arts and cultural education to hundreds of children and youth through its core steelpan and youth development programs.  

The Steelband provides instruction in steelpan music by pan master Roger Greenidge.  The music repertoire consists of genres from Caribbean and calypso to pop, rhythm and blues and gospel.  The Steelband performs at a broad range of events and venues throughout metropolitan Washington, DC and eastern states. The band has recorded two albums, Rising and Pan in DC.

To complement music instruction, life skills sessions include academic reinforcement, health education, violence and substance abuse prevention, etiquette and social skills, and other topics of interest and relevance to participants.  Infused in all activities is the history and culture of the African-diaspora locally and globally 

The Steelband is more than a musical group, the band becomes a family. The emphasis on cultural experiences and learning about the African-American and other diaspora cultures broadens their world view.  They receive support and encouragement for their academic studies and other extra curricula activities.  Yes, the band becomes a family.

The Harbor Knights Youth steel Orchestra is a steel pan musical group, sponsored by the Baltimore Education and Culture Institute, Inc. (BECI, Inc.)  The group performs locally, regionally and upon request to help promote the various endeavors undertaken by BECI. Inc.

Their inaugural performance came during a Junior Catholic Daughters Court Mother Mary E. Lange #2441, draft workshop at St. Veronica’s Catholic Hall in Cherry Hill on April 22, 2006.  Musicians of the steel orchestra mostly came out of the “PAN Youth Program”.

“PAN Youth Program” is a new initiative for BECI, Inc. in partnership with Cherry Hill’s Patapsco Elementary Middle School System (BCPSS), the “PAN Youth Program” focuses on enriching the lives of at risk children in Baltimore City through music.

The “PAN Youth Program” is an after-school enrichment opportunity for students.  The program is at no cost to students and teaches them how to play steel drums.  During the 90 day session, students receive instruction from expert musicians and drummers in the history, techniques and learn (hands-on) to play the steel drum.  At the conclusion students receive a certificate and exceptional students are invited to perform at the Annual Harbor View festival, a BECI, Inc. sponsored community-based event held each July in Cherry Hill.

Registration for students desiring to participate in the program occurs quarterly and is open to any child between the ages of 9 and 17 years of age.  The registration process includes obtaining permission from the parents of each student and a commitment from the student to maintain passing grades and a wholesome lifestyle while participating in the program.

Harbor Lights Pan Ensemble was founded in September 2018 in Baltimore, Maryland. It is comprised of a  group of music lovers originating from different nationalities such as the Caribbean, America and Europe. Their members range from teens to young at heart where everyone shares an appreciation for the steeldrum culture. Some members started as beginners, not knowing much about the culture and the instrument; while others have played pan before. Led under the musical direction of Dexter Keane and with consistent practice and discipline each member has advanced in the technique of playing the steeldrum.

In this picture the band poses with a Governor's Citation received from Governor Wes Moore of the State of Maryland and a Certificate of Recognition which they received from Mayor Brandon M. Scott, Mayor of the City of Baltimore at the Baltimore Steelpan Jamboree at Eager Park on Saturday 10th August 2024. 

Some of the other accomplishments that Harbor Lights Pan Ensemble has achieved during their premiere year include:

• Baltimore /Washington Caribbean Carnival 2019 1st Place for Best Steelband on the Road

• Empowerment at the Mill event in the West Baltimore Community

• Premiere event at Langston Hughes Community Resource Center for State Leaders and Politicians

• Featured band at ‘Pan on the Hill 2019’ hosted by St. Veronica’s Youth Steel Orchestra

Harbor Lights Pan Ensemble’s goals and objectives are to promote the Steelband culture internationally by teaching and educating beginners and any interested people with the technique and the formula of pan music.
More information about the band can be found at their website at harborlightspanensemble.com

The biography for this band is currently being developed.

The biography for this band is currently being developed.

Lennard Jack, Jr. is a Steelband pannist born in the twin-island Republic of Trinidad and Tobago.  He has been playing the steel pans for over 40 years and has played for numerous events, parties and concerts throughout the East Coast of the United States and Trinidad and Tobago.

He is the leader of the Caribbean Jazz Band ‘FUSION” based in Maryland, USA and has released his debut CD, entitled “Give Thanks”. Lennard Jack & Fusion was formed in 1985 on the campus of Howard University, Washington DC. The original musicians included Gath Hewlitt on guitar, June Charles on Bass guitar, Kenneth Joseph on drums, Chris Toussaint on percussion, and Lennard Jack Jr on steelpan. Presently, the band is comprised of Jeremy Caesar on drums, Chris Toussaint on percussion, Greg Smith on keyboards. Chaney Thomas on Bass, Will Smith on saxophone and Lennard Jack Jr on steelpan.

Lennard first began playing the steelpan under the tutelage of one of the greatest pan tuners ever, Bertrand “Birch” Kellman, with his band Travatos, then went on to play with the Fonclaire Steel Orchestra based in San Fernando, Trinidad.  He is also one of the foundation members and musical arrangers of the Pan Masters Steel Orchestra based in Maryland, USA for the past 39 years.

Lennard plays an eclectic blend of Caribbean Jazz, Calypso, Reggae and other genres of music of the African Diaspora, and has played with Robert Greenidge, Len “Boogsie” Sharpe, Ken “Professor” Philmore, David Boothman and the DC jazz veteran Robert Northern, aka Brother Ah.  He has also recorded on Raf Robertson’s album entitled, “Universal Rhythm” and Trinirollo’s 2023 release entitled, “TAKE AH WINE.”

Under the Leadership of Terrence Charles and Musical Arrangers, Tampee Henry, Eugene Edwards, Oliver Byam and Dexter Keane, Maryland Pacesetters was regarded as one of the trailblazers in showcasing Pan in the City of Baltimore. 

Original members of the Band included Michael “Meggie” Clark on Drums; Trevor Clarke on Drums; Edric Grant on Double Seconds; Ralph “Ricky” Paul on Cello; Wayne Hipolyte on Tenor; Arthur “Bough” James on Six Bass; Winston Subero on Percussions; Alvin Young on Tripple Guitar; Emrold Gray on Double Tenor; Gordon “Slim” Barrow(Arranger); Earl Joseph on Six Bass; Michael Joseph on Double Tenor; Clayton Belle on Percussions; Patrick Belle on Percussions; Keith “Blue Boy” Henry on Tenor; and, Ronald “Bounce” Byum on Percussions.

Over the years, the Band continued to flourish with personnel changes and without compromising their goals and objectives

Members who were tasked with producing and maintaining a high standard of music, punctuated by clarity and precision included Oliver Byam, Desmond St. Rose and Tampee Henkey on Tenor; Eugene Edwards on Double Tenor; Terrence Charles and Dexter Keane on Seconds; Emilio Grant and Joseph “Bunny” Knights on Guitars/Cello; Jorno Paige and Curtis Archie, Low Bass; Terry Jones and Damion Smith, High Bass; and, Kaidu Parker, Allan Cupid, Percival Ford and Palsey Graham on Rhythm/Percussion.

Their many accomplishments included a 2018 Vinyl Release which included popular renditions such as Sexual Healing, Ash Wednesday Jail, Endless Love, Stealing Love on the Side, Heat, Eine Kleine Nachtmusik and a popular Caribbean medley featuring Yellow Bird, Jamaica Farewell and Island in the Sun.

The cultural environment in Baltimore was also very demanding yet very rewarding.  Many opportunities were presented to the band, and their varied successes were documented.  Favorable and repeat clientele included Ladew Topiary Gardens, Oregon Ridge and the Merriweather Post Pavilion.

The biography for this band is currently being developed.

The Metropolitan Symphony Steel Orchestra is a medium-sized Steelband which plays primarily Contemporary Christian and Gospel Music, in addition to other genres.

It was in the early 1990s that the steel orchestra from the Metropolitan church was organized under the direction of David Campbell. The band learned very rapidly learning mostly gospel music and performing throughout the USA. The band was divided into 2 bands and band number two was under the direction of Austin Thorpe. Lesa Caesar and Gerri Caesar carried on with the ministry.

The band has performed throughout the USA including Constitution Hall and the Kennedy Center. In the mid-nineties the band performed in Holland and Paris. In the year 2000, the band performed The Battle Hymn of the Republic in Toronto Canada in front of 30,000 persons from all over the world. This song was arranged and taught by Leon Edwards famous Panorama Arranger and Winner in Trinidad.

Notable engagements include in 2009, the Orchestra was featured in a recording at 3ABN for a youth-oriented television program called “Kids Time”. And, the opening of the Activity/Ministry Center of the Metropolitan Seventh-Day Adventist Church in Hyattsville, Maryland in September 2010. The band continues to move forward!

Mosaic Steel Orchestra was founded in May 2007 by Dr. Anthony Hailey.  Based in Norfolk, Virginia, the ensemble has members from the cities of Chesapeake, Hampton, Newport News, Norfolk, Portsmouth and Virginia Beach.

Mosaic is the art of creating images by assembling small pieces of material.  Mosaic Steel Orchestra applies this concept to create musical images and fulfilling experiences by assembling a diverse membership, performing a wide range of musical styles, and exposing members to all available platforms of Steelband performance.

Since its establishment, Mosaic Steel Orchestra has performed extensively throughout Virginia at various festivals and events.  On the national scene, Mosaic joined Sesame Flyers Steel Orchestra to perform in the 2009 New York Steelband Panorama, Brooklyn, New York.  The group traveled to Oxford, Ohio to perform with Miami University Steelband, Eastern Kentucky University Steelband and other local High School Steelbands during Miami University 2011 Pan Fest.  Such performances have strengthened Mosaic members with insight from opposite ends of the American Steelband spectrum.

A very important piece that completes the Mosaic experience for the members is the emphasis on higher education.  In just five years Mosaic Steel Orchestra has performed on the campuses of Hampton University, Norfolk State University, James Madison University, Old Dominion University, The College of William & Mary, Elizabeth City State University, Miami University of Ohio and the University of Delaware; exposing Mosaic members to the dynamics of various college-life settings and instilling the importance of pursuing a college degree.

As a former member of a Steelband organization from the early ‘70s, “The Solo Harmonites”, which originated from his home country, Trinidad and Tobago, Michael had the opportunity to travel to many countries including the United States, where he decided to make his home It is here in the United States that he accomplished many goals and enjoyed hobbies such us, table tennis, soccer, and his favorite love the Steel Pan which is so much a part of his life today. When Michael began playing the steel pan, his first instrument was the Cello Pan.

After several years of playing the instrument, Michael felt the need to use the instrument in a different way. His love for the instrument and the joy he experienced playing led him to join various steel bands within the United States such as Trinidad Steel band, and the CAISO Steelband, of which he is still a member. From the CAISO Steelband, he developed “The One Man Band.” It was an idea he had contemplated for some time, so he followed his dream of creating a unique sound, an orchestra of one man and his instruments. I believed in my talent and was successful in creating sweet music by fusing several different pans with other instruments, and “The One Man Band” was born.

Michael’s passion for playing pan has allowed him the opportunity to travel to various cities within the US, including a performance at the Kennedy Center in Washington DC, for the U.S troops in Kosovo, and for the Embassy of Guyana, Kuwait.

Recently, Michael was awarded with the Presidential Lifetime Achievement award by President Biden for his work around the country and Internationally, promoting the steelband.

Today, Michael has accomplished a feeling of joy and pleasure as he uses his unique and blessed talent to make people of every creed and race happy through the beautiful sounds of his steelband. Michael also feels blessed to have finished his latest project, which is playing the Cello pans system with his feet while also playing a pair of Double Second pans with his hands and playing a harmonica. The video below shows him playing "How Great Thou Art".

On May 5, 2024, the Pan Masters Steelband Organization celebrated 39 years of providing Steelband music in the Washington Metropolitan Area. Pan Masters attributes its success to a strong belief in the family; outstanding support from Caribbean Organizations in the Washington Metropolitan Area; a determined group of excellent musical arrangers; and, an experienced administrative and promotional organization, which continuously emphasizes quality performance and good clientele relationships.

The formation of many a Steelband has historically evolved from another existing band.  Such is the case with the Pan Masters Steel Orchestra.  In 1985, eleven members of the Trinidad & Tobago Steelband of Washington, DC (Frankie Baltazar, St Clair Baltazar, Roland Barnes, Robert Barnes, Patrick Belle, Don Cumberbatch, Malcolm John, Lennard Jack, Jr., Stephen Landrigan, Joseph Lewis and Brian Solomon) decided to chart their musical aspirations in another direction, and this resulted in the birth of the Pan Masters Steel Orchestra. 

Since its inception, Pan Masters has been blessed with very talented musical arrangers such as Marc Anatol; Belinda “BJ” Caesar; Jeremy Caesar; Natalie Davidson; Karen Lee-Duffell; Roger Greenidge; Adam Griese; Lennard Jack, Jr; the late Ken “Professor” Philmore; Kristen Jones; Khandeya “Kay” Sheppard; Eli Pete St. Cyr; Arden Thomas; Robert “Bullit” Thwaites; and Sherwin Thwaites.

Pan Masters also acknowledges the artistic creation of the many pan tuners who worked diligently not only to create the instruments but also to help maintain the quality sound that we have grown accustomed to hearing.  Special recognition to the late Vincent Hernandez, for providing our initial set of instruments, the late Michael Enoch, Denzil Hernandez, Bertram Kellman, Herman “Guppy” Brown, the late Ellie Mannette, Elton Williams, Learie Harrigan and Billy Sheeder for upgrading and maintaining our equipment.

In addition to showcasing the “PAN”, Pan Masters has included in its diverse cultural activities, Pan Classes; a group of Djembe Drummers and Percussionists; an Annual Pan Jamboree; Calypso Extravaganza; participating in the DC Caribbean Carnival on Georgia Avenue, Norfolk Carnival and Baltimore Carnival; New York J’ouvert Competition and several visits to the Bluemont Concert Series, and Baltimore Harbor View Steelband Festival. Local programming at area universities includes Gallaudet University, Howard University, Georgetown University, George Washington University, University of the District of Columbia, Bowie State University, Townson University, University of Maryland and outreach programming at Nursing Homes and Community Centers.

Other notable engagements include representing the PAN fraternity at the Inauguration ceremonies for President Bill Clinton and Mayor Barry and at the Caribbean Performance at the 2023 4th global World Culture Festival, held for the first time in the USA and staged on the National Mall in Washington, DC.

Pan Masters was also the recipient of the 2009 - Volunteer Service Award issued by Maryland Governor Martin O'Malley; the 2011- North Brentwood Citizens Community Services Award; and the 2014- Prince George’s County Police Department Certificate of Appreciation – “The Cora Rice Christmas Party for Deserving Children”.

Additional accomplishments include winning the Baltimore Pan-O-Rama Steelband Competition (1993 – 1998); recipient of the Award for Outstanding Performances during the DC Caribbean Carnival (1993-2000); Winner of the 1998 J’ouvert competition in Brooklyn, New York, and 3rd Place as part of the Philadelphia Pan Stars Team in New York 2024 Panorama Competition.

Under the current leadership of Malcolm John, Chairman and Candace Thomas, Steelband Coordinator, the Organization continues to embrace its motto of “One Love” to sustain its growth and development.  The other Team Members include Marcus Adams; Marva Baird-Alleyne; Roland Barnes; Lillie Bond; Elizabeth Caesar; Keith Caesar; Ken Chewlin; Jennifer Cosbert; Lennard Jack Jr.; Ometha Jack; Mark Johnson; Keith Mathews; Sheldon Sammy; Judy Slinger; Warren Thomas and Angela VanNiel.

Today, Pan Masters has grown to over 25 players (some being the children of the founding members), with several dozen more people being active members of the Pan Masters Organization.    The organization boasts a diverse membership in both age and nationality.  Members hail from various parts of the Caribbean, but over the years several American pannists have joined the group, having learned to play at colleges and high schools throughout the US. 

Finally, It is with great pride that we acknowledge our foundation members for their sacrifices and commitment; our families, friends and neighbors for allowing us the opportunity to preserve and share our culture; the other Steelbands in the DMV who not only promote and showcase the artform throughout the year, but take pride in their cultural heritage; and, all pannists who have embraced the PMSO organization since its inception in 1985.

The biography for this band is currently being developed.

Roger was born in Trinidad and Tobago, the island that invented the Steel Pan. Fans of the late Jimmy Buffett may recognize his last name since his brother Robert, his mentor who started playing at age seven, is a member of the Coral Reefer Band.  In fact, Roger has filled in at several Buffett concerts over the years.

He joined the internationally acclaimed WITCO Desperadoes Steel Orchestra in 1982, leading to performances at Carnegie Hall and the Apollo Theatre as well as appearances with Nancy Wilson, Liza Minnelli, Aretha Franklin, Third World and Harry Belafonte.  Roger has opened for The Beach Boys with Caiso Steel Drum, performed with the late Ralph MacDonald at the Lincoln Center in New York City, played with the New York Pops Orchestra, appeared at Madison Square Garden, recorded with Rapper NAS, and played the US National Anthem for a Washington Wizards basketball game at Verizon Center.

He works as a freelance musician, but his longest and permanent role in the past twenty years is the Musical Director of the East of the River Steelband in Washington, DC, which has brought him great satisfaction teaching young minds of this extraordinary instrument of which he is a master.

Also, as one of the Musical Directors of Pan Masters Steel Orchestra, Roger has arranged and provided music repertoires consisting of genres from the Caribbean, Soca, Reggae and Calypso to pop, rhythm and blues and gospel.  His recent accomplishment was arranging the tune Inventor (Olatunji) for the Philadelphia (Philly) Pan Stars Steel Orchestra participation in the 2024 New York Labor Day Pan-O-Rama competition where the band placed 3rd.

Panquility Steel Band is a professional steel pan ensemble established in 2007.  They share the love of steel pan music throughout Washington D.C. Metropolitan Area and beyond.  Panquility is widely recognized as being one of the top steel bands in the area, as well as an important cultural institution dedicated to preserving and promoting Caribbean music and culture.  Currently all Panquility members are of Caribbean decent, but this is not a requirement to join the group.

Panquility prides itself on music representative of numerous genres including Soca, Reggae, Jazz, Latin, Calypso, Pop, Torch Light, R&B to current chart-topers.  Whether recent or classic songs, they perform them all for a variety of official and social occasions.

Panquility steel band is made up of a small group and a large group.  The large group plays music for festivals, concerts, races, parades, and other large community events.  The small group performs at wedding ceremonies, cocktail hours, pool parties and other private events.  Panquility has consistently been placed in the winner’s circle for the Bowie Memorial Day Parade, DC/Baltimore Caribbean Carnival and Takoma Park Parade on the 4th of July.

PANLARA is an organization that provides an arts and cultural forum for youths from diverse communities in the D.C. Metropolitan Area. It creates performance opportunities to market and enhance talents of artistic youths. The main emphasis is to facilitate partnerships among community youth groups and encourage them to build businesses through youth entrepreneurship programs. PANLARA hosted its 3rd Annual International Youth Arts and Culture Festival 2014 in downtown Silver Spring, Maryland.

PANLARA Youth Steel Orchestra’s aim is to share their African Caribbean culture through steel pan music. On its initial international tour, the original members traveled to South Africa to perform for school children in Soweto, South Africa, a trip that has changed their lives completely. PANLARA members are all excellent students in the D.C. Metropolitan. They also arrange various genres of music for their performances and conduct regular seminars in local schools, churches and nursing homes to teach the steel drum instrument.

In addition to performing in the Caribbean, the youth have graced the stage at many of D.C.’s signature musical arenas. While the prestige of entertaining at venues such as State Department, Naval Academy, DC Armory, DC Convention Center, Smithsonian, and Blues Alley was electrifying, the greatest joy comes from one of their favorite projects, bringing their unique brand of music therapy to seniors and children of all ages. The smiles and laughter among the dancing seniors and frolicking youths are priceless.

Positive Vibrations Youth Steel Orchestra is one of the varied programs established by The Cultural Academy for Excellence (CAFE) which is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization based in Prince George's County, Maryland, that aims to engage the youth in its community through cultural arts programs.  CAFE began in 1996 with a grant from the Kaiser Permanente Building Hope Foundation.

The Positive Vibrations Youth Steel Orchestra has been sharing its melodies nationally and internationally since 1996. The orchestra was started in the suburban basement of founder Lorna Green with 14 students and some steelpans. At the end of two weeks the group had completed the “Star Spangled Banner” and performed the piece for the Olympic torch ceremony passing through Largo, MD.

Within a year the group relocated to Hyattsville, MD and the rest is history. This group of energetic young performers has toured nationally and internationally, including performances in Dakar, Senegal; Ontario, Canada, Chicago, IL, and New Haven, CT.  Notable venues include the Kennedy Center, the Zora Neale Hurston Festival, the Virginia Beach Panorama Festival (grand champions 2006 and 2007) and countless other public and private performances.  The young entertainers have performed with world-renowned musicians including steelpan virtuosos Liam Teague, Robert Greenidge, Andy Narell, saxophonist Arturo Tappin, and Grammy nominated trumpeter, Étienne Charles.

The full orchestra comprising of 20-25 students, ranging in age from 8-17, are students at the Saturday Academy, The Cultural Academy for Excellence (CAFE).  At the academy, students study music theory and practical steelpan pieces, as well as learn a wide variety of music arranged by the academy’s highly credentialed instructors.

Over the years, PVYSO has had the pleasure of having over 500 students grace its instruments. Arguably one of the best steel orchestras in the Mid-Atlantic region, they also proudly state that their parent organization, CAFE is “one of the best charities of the Greater Washington region.

Rebirth Steel is a small Steelband which was based in Landover Maryland, most of the members of which reside in the Washington, DC/Metro area and who came from the Caribbean Island of Trinidad 30 - 40 years ago, initially to pursue studies in school, where they all met and got to know each other. Having a common interest in Steelband music, they decided to form a Steelband in the early eighties, but rehearsal space was always a problem, and its unavailability caused the demise of their first 2 attempts.

After a brief hiatus, the band started up again as Rebirth Steel; then 6 months ago, the building where the band rehearsed was sold. Later, the Band was permitted the use of warehouse space in Landover, MD (on Pensy Drive, off Route 202 south). Over an extended period, Rebirth Steel Orchestra made great progress and attracted additional players before the band disbanded.

Stageside Steel Orchestra was formed in the 1981 timeframe. The president of the organization was Eugene Sawney and Charles Moses (deceased) was the captain. Rudy Walker, Bede Lopez and Wayne Berkley comprised the core players of the fledgling orchestra. Some of the initial players included Chris and Colin Habin, James Pilgrim, Bernard Murray (deceased) Norbert Douglas, and “Cutty” Philip.(deceased).  Other founding members included Barbara Moses, Alfred “Shapey” Smith, Dwight McIntosh, as well as Charles and Gail Gomez (deceased)

The band's initial set of instruments were made by George Croney of Grenada, who sent the pans up to DC from Florida. The rest of the instruments were made and tuned by Leslie Jordan, founder of Drums. These instruments were all of an older style of pans and not the newer standard 4ths and 5ths style. This included the basses which were a five drum set up.  Bede Lopez was the arranger during the band's existence which lasted a little more than five years. They competed in an early Panorama competition in Baltimore, which was won by The Pace Setters Steelband, a leading band in the area at that time. Bede also remembers that a crowd favorite in their repertoire was the theme from the Ten Commandments, played in calypso tempo.  As he relates with enthusiastic nostalgia, this arrangement was, "Their signature tune", a big  crowd pleaser every time Stageside Steel performed it.

Located in the City of Baltimore, Maryland, St. Veronica's Youth Steel Orchestra (STVYSO) evolved in July 1999 from the program Pan in the Community, Inc. STYVSO, as they are regularly referred to, have performed throughout the East coast, visited Trinidad and Tobago five times and have played with other top steel orchestras.  STVYSO has been playing at The Amphitheater in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor for over five years.  They have also performed at the Virginia Arts festival which they won twice, Harbor View festival which they have also won twice and various other organizations and churches culminating with a performance in the Gold Room of the White House which they visited in 2008.

In this organization, the steel drum is the medium by which young people are given the opportunity to redirect their lives and focus on something positive.  To be dedicated, disciplined, sociable, attentive, well mannered, and courteous are all the attributes demonstrated and expected of participants in the program.

This program caters for young people from various backgrounds, including the underprivileged from high-risk communities.  Emphasis has been placed on these individuals with the intention that they will be able to interact with the privileged few and develop a friendship that will encourage positive thinking and acceptable behavior. The involvement of the parents and the rest of the local community is a stabilizing factor in the lives of these young people.  Their self-confidence and the ability to work with their peers is developed as they perform in public.

To be identified as a member of St. Veronica's Youth Steel Orchestra also boosts their self-image.  This opportunity is granted to those with the potential and the necessary interest.  The program is open to anyone who is from the age of seven and older and who is ready to learn the art of playing pan music.

Since its inception in 2004, The TAGE On Steel Ensemble has performed at a wide variety of events throughout the Greater Washington DC Metropolitan Area, North Carolina, Virginia Beach and Delaware. In October 2012, the band played at an event for the Kingston Parish Church, Jamaica, during its 150th year celebrations.

TAGE’s repertoire is predominantly “gospel” and includes beautiful renditions of gospel favorites such as How Great Thou Art, It Is Well With My Soul and Total Praise. A few secular pieces, such as My Way, Woman on the Bass and Lean On Me, provide a comprehensive repertoire suitable for most events. Band members use their musical talents to raise funds for several charitable causes, such as the Thanksgiving Program at the First United Methodist Church of Hyattsville (FUMC), and for increasing support of steel pan programs, by showcasing the versatility of the instrument. Proceeds from performances help to support other charities as well as operations of the TAGE on Steel program.

Having experienced the joy of Pan, TAGE On Steel members embrace the opportunity to spread the experience to others who may not be so enlightened. The team offers workshops for groups of eight to ten individuals (aged 8 years or older). Classes for new members are offered on an as-needed basis. Once new members become comfortable with their ‘Panmanship’, they are invited to participate in full band rehearsals, which occur on Monday and Thursday nights at FUMC in Hyattsville, Maryland.

TAGE has utilized its unique repertoire to advance its musical aspirations and has notable engagement venues including:

• First United Methodist Church Hyattsville, MD

• St. Edmonds United Methodist Church, Chesapeake Beach, MD

• St. Christopher's Episcopal Church, New Carrolton, MD

• St. Barnabas Episcopal Church, Upper Marlboro, MD

• Omega Psi Phi- Gospel Extravaganza, Columbia MD

• Panorama Caribbean Music Festival, Virginia Beach, VA

• Fuquay-Varina United Methodist Church, North Carolina

• Epworth United Methodist Church, Delaware

• St. Bride’s Episcopal Church, Mississauga, Canada

• The Washington National Cathedral.

The Steelpan Ministry at National Wesleyan Church in Hyattsville, Maryland began in 2004. Ten women were the early participants, with Dr. Janet Silverthorne-Walker as musical director and Mr. Francis Richards as teacher and arranger for the steelpan music. Over the years, kids and teens joined the ministry and Floris Baynes-Nedd succeeded Dr. Janet as the musical director.

Today, the Steel Pan ministry comprises a small group of kids and teens; a few women; and Mr. Richards continues to be our teacher. We play gospel, classical and contemporary music, and we use our talents and gifts to glorify God and enrich our community. We continue to reach out to our surrounding elementary schools to recruit new players for the Steelpan ministry.

In September 1961, on the campus of Howard University there was already a Trinidad Steelband made up of three Howard Students and two pannists who travelled from New York to complement the pan side. The band was originally managed by Dr. Willoughby, a Trini Dentist. They were all Trini's except for an American female named Dorothy. The leader was George Laurence, an Engineering student (now deceased) on Bass, Vincent Lasse (former PNM/PNP Minister in Trinidad & Tobago) on Bongos, Eugene Richards (from Trinidad) on guitar pans, and Dorothy on cello pans. The problem was they had no lead player. The only way they could perform was to bring two players from New York, Kirby who played double-seconds and Oliver who played the tenor pan.  When Keith Preddie joined the Band, he brought his "Invaders" Tenor Pan, provided the melody and subsequent musical arrangements. 

These guys were getting ready to graduate, and six of them were already working on forming another Steelband - we had already collected enough money to buy the drums from Trinidad - this band was called "The Trinidad and Tobago Steelband".  It was comprised of "Smoky Greaves" a Medical Student, "Gordon Zephrine" - David Zephrine's older brother, "Malcolm Weekes" an Engineering Student, "Ruthven Thomas" a student, "Carlos Paul" a Medical Student, and Keith Preddie, "An Engineering Student".  

With upcoming graduations in the horizon, new arrivals joined the existing students at Howard University which gave credence to the formation of The Trinidad All Stars and subsequent existence of The Trinidad and Tobago Steelband of Washington, D.C. in 1963.  

For over 63 years, the Steelband landscape was fully represented! The Band continued to be prominently featured around the Campus and at many cultural programs showcased by the Trinidad and Tobago Embassy and the Trinidad and Tobago Association of Washington, DC. The band also performed for the inaugurations of President Reagan and President Nixon, as well as for Vice President Humphrey. Additionally it developed a friendship with Attorney General Robert Kennedy, performed at many of his functions and was always welcomed at his private residence.  At that time guys like Ronald Emrit, and Franklin "Tiki" Harding had joined the band.

These players received many accolades as they were afforded the opportunity to display their musical skills and were featured in several Fine Arts productions at Howard University, articles in Ebony Magazine, Washington Post Parade Magazine, Jet Magazine, and several TV appearances.

At a significant milestone performance in Washington DC, the wife of a Texaco Executive responsible for all oil functions in Trinidad and Tobago, heard the group and fell in love with the music. The rest is history.  She was able to convince her husband to sponsor the band in exchange for painting the drums in Texaco colors and the players were all awarded scholarships for the rest of their time at Howard University. Additionally, as the leader of the band, Keith Preddie worked for Texaco every summer in the New Jersey/Philadelphia area for the rest of his tenure at Howard University.  

During its prestigious musical journey, the Band was very competitive and within its enclave had skilled musical arrangers who took pride in preparing the players for successful engagements in local Panorama competitions and Parades, cultural showcase in the Washington Metropolitan Area, on the campus of Duke University, North Carolina and local Pan Jamborees.

Today, only one Founding Member Keith Preddie, PE has survived and is acknowledged by many pannists as a cultural ambassador. His contribution to the development of Pan in Washington, DC cannot be overlooked!

Founded in Baltimore in 1971, the Trinidad & Tobago Baltimore Steel Orchestra is led by master steel pan player and teacher Richard Semper, recipient of the 2013-14 Folklife Apprenticeship Award. Across almost five decades, Richard Semper has taught generations in the region, while his orchestra has had a celebrated career representing Maryland’s Trinidadian community.

The steel pan (also known as steelpans, steel drums or pans) is a musical instrument that was created on the twin island Republic of Trinidad and Tobago in the early 1940s. Orchestras that in the late ’30s performed on frying pans, dustbins, and oil drums gave way to steel pan ensembles by the ’40s. When the United States Navy arrived in Trinidad in 1941, sailors were amazed by the steel pan music and helped popularize it internationally.

Steel pans were originally made from 55-gallon industrial drums that were hammered to create individual notes; today, many instruments are created to custom specifications. The repertoire of a modern orchestra may include reggae, pop tunes, and, of course, instrumental interpretations of the calypsos so closely associated with the island.

Richard Semper emigrated to the U.S. in 1968 from Trinidad. His steel orchestra quickly became a mainstay, performing concerts throughout the mid-Atlantic region, touring Europe in 1978 as Goodwill Ambassadors for the City of Baltimore, entertaining crowds at the 1979 and 1983 Major League Baseball World Series in Baltimore, and playing for former President Carter at the Kennedy Center. Recognizing the orchestra’s significance, the late mayor and governor of Maryland William Donald Schaefer named it the “Official Steel Orchestra of the City of Baltimore.” Today, the group boasts three generations of pan players.

From his recollection, Peter Gray, who played tenor with the band remembers that the leader of the band, and owner, was the late Lennox 'Goat' Liverpool.  They practiced in Lennox's backyard on Piney Branch Road opposite the Safeway near Georgia Avenue. Robert 'Bullit' Thwaites as well as his sons, Sherwin and Shawn, arranged most of the tunes. This band lasted about 3 years (max) in the mid 2000s. Emanuel 'Cobo Jack' Riley did all the background pans  and all of the front line pans were made by Herman 'Guppy' Brown.  Emanuel 'Cobo Jack' Riley also played Bass with the band when they played on the road for DC Carnival and in Brooklyn, New York where they played twice for the Labor Day J'ouvert celebrations.

Around the time of Trini Pan America's demise, a new band was formed called DC Pan Jammers, (mentioned above) owned by Emlyn Harewood.  Some of the TPA players, including Peter Gray, went on to play for Pan Jammers.

Tropical Ensemble led by Emrold Gray, owner of MalletMan, was an innovative ensemble of steelpan musicians and one electric bass player. After leaving Maryland PaceSetters, Emrold, together with four other colleagues, formed this ensemble, played at events all over Baltimore and the DMV, exciting many audiences with their unique mix of pan and the electric bass. During its existence, Tropical Ensemble recorded three studio CD's, "The Message" and "Still de Best" are still on the playlist of many pan enthusiasts. As a result of the band dismantling, third CD remains unpublished.