Pan Trinbago is happy that the government has given $2.3 million to unsponsored steel bands.
Public Relations Officer for the organisation, Kwesi Moore, explains how this has assisted with smoothing the path for some steel orchestras.
“We welcome this initiative. Well, it’s a continuation, I should say, of a policy which has been in place for some time now because we do recognise the work of steel bands in communities, and we are thankful that the government recognises the weight of steel bands in the communities but we do recognise that a lot of times they are not supported financially like some of the larger bands.”
Mr. Moore says that putting a band on stage is not only about uniforms or acquiring instruments but also about costs directly related to getting the best sound from the pan.
“When you include things like the Arranger, drill masters, drummers, painting, welding, we are talking about a couple hundred thousand dollars in expenses for steelbands and it’s a significant sum to get any band on stage. It really is a production.”
The Pan Trinbago PRO says that emerging from dedication to the steel band movement are key factors such as youth engagement, community development and economic growth. He says that putting money into the pan is truly an investment, which has consistently contributed positively to society.