Editors Message

The history of the steelband artform shows that it continues to survive from its inception and has never faltered against any opposition. The digital age has been readily accepted and grasped to ensure that the artform continued to evolve with the times. Bands and Musicians continue to use the vast choice of digital platforms to showcase their music, regularly used by the youth of our universal nations. This digital age stepped up a gear and as always the steelband culture adapted and kept pace with these global changes. The continuity of our culture lies with the youths of our global nations and the changes; developments, creations and innovations they introduce will maintain its momentum in this digital era to command its rightful place amongst musical platforms. Steelpan’s global recognition is evident as musicians are promoting the national instrument of Trinidad and Tobago worldwide through their many actions.

HelloWith the major global changes brought on by the Pandemic, the war in Ukraine and world-wide climate changes.

The entertainment industry has suffered immensely but is slowly recovering. The ongoing war in Ukraine has dimmed prospects of a postpandemic economic recovery for emerging and developing universal economies.

The crisis has seen acceleration of underlying trends in the music industry. These are based on the importance of streaming to the industry which has grown in total revenues in the past years.

BAS/NHC hosted their successful 44th National Steelband Panorama in 2022 with Ebony Steel Band led by Duvone Stewart being victorious. Nailah Blackman performed at the event before the start of the competition. The continued development of Notting Hill Carnival and the promotion of the Trinidadian culture in the UK and Europe in these uncertain times is credited to the laborious efforts of Matthew Phillip,CEO of NHC, his team and all involved. Everyone is looking forward to NHC 2023.

This year sees Glissando Steel orchestra celebrate their 35th anniversary whilst Metronomes Steel Orchestra has a number of events planned to celebrate their iconic 40th anniversay in 2023. Panpodium and its universal media partners continue the promotion of the steelpan and its culture through its digital media platforms ensuring that the wider audiences and virgin territories are captured. Panpodium offers its appreciation to our global social media partners for actively supporting and promoting the unselfish efforts of the global steelpan community to world audiences ensuring its recognition is always at the forefront. I offer my personal thanks to everyone who has contributed to Pan Podium’s success and look forward to your continued support in making Pan Podium a beacon for the artform.