Steel Talks: New York's Pan Yard Secrets

When Steel Talks is a website dedicated to the history and culture of the steelband, with a particular focus on New York. It provides listings of Pan Yard locations and steel orchestras in New York, along with contact information. The website also covers steelpan events, news, history, and competitions, such as the Panorama competition. Steel-pan bands in Brooklyn have historically faced challenges in finding rehearsal spaces, but groups like the Pan Rebels Steel Orchestra have left a significant mark on the New York pan music scene. The website also highlights women's contributions to the steelpan art form and features interviews with prominent female figures in the industry.

D’RADOES Steel Orchestra

D'Radoes Steel Orchestra is a public-facing steel orchestra based in Brooklyn, New York. They have been active since at least 2009, when they were included in the 'Pan in New York 2009' CD. In 2010, they played "Pan Army" days before the 2010 panorama, which was captured by Basement Recordings.

D'Radoes Steel Orchestra is located at the corner of Farragut Road and East 52nd Street in Brooklyn, New York. Junior Samuel can be contacted on (917) 554-3944 for more information about the orchestra.

DESPERS USA Steel Orchestra

The DESPERS USA Steel Orchestra is a New York-based steel band that has been active since 1976. Founded by members of the Desperadoes Steel Orchestra of Trinidad and Tobago, the group is known for its diverse membership of all ages and its uplifting performances. Their motto, "Deeply Emotional Spirited Players Executing Rhythmical Sounds," captures the essence of their musical spirit.

The orchestra is renowned for its success in the annual Panorama Competition in Brooklyn, a showcase of Caribbean-style ensembles vying for the steel-band championship. Despers USA has consistently placed in the competition, claiming the title of New York Steel Band Panorama champions in 2018 with their performance of "Year For Love," arranged by Odie Franklin. The group has also won the Panorama Championship in 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, and 2018.

Despers USA's Panorama performances are a result of dedicated preparation and practice. Band members gather in vacant parking lots, with their ranks swelling to around 100 individuals during the summer months. Their rehearsals are intense and demanding, with members investing sleepless nights and countless hours of practice. The group is organised by sections, with thin tenors ringing the outside, deep oil-drum basses towards the centre, and midrange "guitars" nearby.

In addition to their Panorama success, Despers USA Steel Orchestra has performed at various events, including the 2019 Harlem Meer Performance Festival. The orchestra's versatility and engaging performances have earned them recognition and a dedicated following. Their willingness to travel up to 500 miles from Brooklyn, NY, for events further showcases their commitment to sharing their music with a wide audience.

HEARTS OF STEEL

Steel orchestras and bands have been a part of New York's cultural fabric for decades. The city is home to many talented steelpan musicians and innovative groups, such as the Pan Rebels, who left their mark on the New York pan music scene in the late '80s. The group of young, rebellious, and talented musicians played a pivotal role in shaping the current age of New York's pan music landscape.

However, steel bands in Brooklyn have faced challenges in finding suitable rehearsal spaces, as highlighted in an article by the New York Times. The high cost of real estate and noise complaints from nearby residents have made it difficult for these bands to secure practice areas. Despite these challenges, the steelpan art form continues to thrive and evolve in New York, with a strong youth presence and a global reach.

Steelpan events and competitions, such as the Panorama, are held annually, showcasing the talent and creativity of steel orchestras like Hearts of Steel. These events celebrate the unique blend of style, beauty, grit, and flavour that characterise New York's steelpan music scene.

METRO Steel Orchestra

The Metro Steel Orchestra is one of the greatest steel orchestras in New York City, with a rich history that dates back to 1990. Led by Anthony "Big Tony" Joseph, a civil engineer and high school basketball coach, the orchestra has become a beloved part of the city's cultural fabric.

In 2023, the Metro Steel Orchestra participated in the New York Panorama, a musical competition that takes place annually before Labour Day. This was a significant year for the orchestra as they collaborated with arranger Terrance "BJ" Marcelle, who had previously won four Panorama championships with D'Radoes Steel Orchestra. The tune of choice for their performance was "Black Man Feeling To Party", arranged by Wilfred Kieal.

Finding a suitable rehearsal space has been a consistent challenge for the Metro Steel Orchestra and other steel-pan bands in Brooklyn. Traditionally, these bands have rented or occupied empty lots known as "pan yards" in West Indian enclaves like Flatbush and Crown Heights. However, gentrification in these areas has made it increasingly difficult to secure affordable and accessible rehearsal spaces. Despite the challenges, the Metro Steel Orchestra continues to persevere and find creative solutions to keep their traditions alive.

The orchestra's dedication to their craft and cultural expression is evident in their willingness to adapt and persist. In 2022, they rehearsed in a rundown building on Atlantic Avenue, showcasing their commitment to making music despite the obstacles they face. The Metro Steel Orchestra is a testament to the resilience and joy that steel-pan music brings to the city of New York.

PAN REBELS Steel Orchestra

The PAN REBELS Steel Orchestra is located at 259 East 34th Street, (between Church & Snyder Avenues) Brooklyn, NY.

In the late 80s, a group of young, talented, and rebellious steelpan musicians known as the Pan Rebels left their mark on New York's pan music scene. The group's birth signalled the start of a new age in New York's pan music continuum, with a focus on youth, new ideas, and fresh talent. The Pan Rebels were always at the forefront of trying new things, although they did not always receive credit for their innovations. The group is also known for starting the now-famous New York J'Ouvert celebrations.

The orchestra has been inactive since 2002, but its musical works and contributions to the New York Steelband music scene remain influential. The group was founded by the dynamic trio of Anthony "Pra" Trebuse, Gary Rogers, and Michelle Williams. Rogers, a co-founder, played the trumpet in the orchestra and featured in a 2001 Christmas concert.

One of the key members of the Pan Rebels was the late "Sarge". The orchestra has collaborated with prominent arrangers like Garvin Blake and Pelham Goddard, as well as the world-renowned Len "Boogsie" Sharpe.

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