Pan Trinbago is mourning the passing of steelpan pioneer Sterling Betancourt, who has died at the age of 96.
Betancourt, born in Laventille in 1930, was among the early musicians who helped transform the steelpan into an internationally recognised instrument.
He was a member of the Trinidad All Steel Percussion Orchestra that performed at the 1951 Festival of Britain, marking the first time steelpan was showcased on a global stage.
He remained in the United Kingdom, where he became a cultural ambassador, promoting steelpan education and performance for decades.
He also contributed to the early development of the Notting Hill Carnival and helped establish steelpan ensembles in Europe.
Betancourt was awarded an MBE in 2002 for his services to music and culture.
Pan Trinbago says his legacy helped elevate the steelpan as a symbol of Trinidad and Tobago’s cultural identity.