Pan Arts Network celebrates 26 Years of Pan at the Annual Snowflakes on Steel Show

BY PAUL JUNOR

On Saturday, January 20^th, 2023, a sold-out crowd celebrated 26 Years of Pan at the annual Snowflakes of Steel. The coldness and dreariness outside the P.C. HoTheatre Chinese Cultural Centre in Scarborough did not dampen the spirits of the patrons inside. It was an unforgettable and memorable day as the melodious sound of steeples music and the harmonious rhythm of energy and vibe filled the theater.

The annual event was presented by Pan Arts Network (P.A.N.), which is an organization that produces and promotes the steel pan, orchestra concerts, soloists and jazz ensembles. The motto of P.A.N is “Pan deserves to be on a world stage.” The evening’s show began with welcome from Earl La Pierre Jr and Wendy Jones who both have been at the forefront of advancing pan music in the Greater Toronto Area, and the world. MPP Raymond Cho presented greetings to the crowd. Unfortunately, Itah Sadu, co-owner of the Blackhurst Cultural Centre who has for many years been the MC of this annual show, could not make it this year.

There were performances by four steel bands during the show. They include:

• Panatics Steelband Network-arranged by Gareth Burgess and Andrew Jackson
• Afropan Steel Orchestra -the People’s Band arranged by Gabriel Chartrand and Earl La Pierre Sr
• Gemini Pan Groove Steel Band -arranged by Andy Phillips and led by Elton Jones
• Pan Fantasy Steel Band -arranged by Al ‘Allos’ Foster and led by Wendy Jones

The evening’s show was dedicated to the late Diane Murray who passed away on July 8^th, 2023. She was known for her supportive role and positive influence as Wendy’s right hand over the years. There was the presentation of a plaque in her honour to her daughter, Treasure who was in attendance. There were touching words written that highlighted Diane’s role. It reads, “Her life was a masterclass of: grace, poise, strength and beauty. She gave without being asked and sacrificed without regret. Her lessons in selflessness and resiliency continue to teach all of us who had the incredible fortune of being in her light.”

There were special performances by Earl Brooks Jr. from New York, USA, and Joy Lapps Lewis backed by the Joy Lapps Project Band. It featured: Jeremy Ledbelter on keyboard, Rob Christopher on saxophone, Andrew Steward on bass, and Larnell Lewis on drums. There was an uplifting and resounding performance by Pan Fantasy Steelband accompanied by Dance Caribe Performing Company led by Martin-Scott Pascal. The exciting sound of the horn section has to be highlighted. It featured: Jan Morgan on trumpet, John Anderson on saxophone, and Terry Worde on trombone.

Special Awards were handed out in the following categories to six individuals:

Pioneer in Steelband Community Tribute Awards:

Mr. Mike Stacey

Mr. Randolph Karamath

Pioneer in Pan Special Tribute Award:

Mr. Robert (Nath) Nathaniel

Women in Pan Awards:

Joy Lapps -Lewis

Betsy Anthony

Student Bursary Award

Rueben Briggs

The power of pan music on display at the Snowflakes on Steel was an evening that will not be soon forgotten by the patrons in attendance. This annual showcase of the best steel bands has become one of the signature events that many in the Black, African and Caribbean communities look forward to during Winter. It shows that pan music can be enjoyed no matter what season of the year. Pan transcends all: cultures, seasons, times and places and has an integral place in the souls and hearts of those who love it deeply!