Panorama 2024: A Night of Steelpan Magic in Brooklyn
Labor Day weekend in Brooklyn was a vibrant celebration of Caribbean culture, with the NY Panorama Steelpan competition at the heart of it all. As a longtime admirer of the art form, I was particularly excited to see the bands I had visited at their pan yards just days before deliver their final presentations on stage.
Before the main event, I soaked up the pre-Panorama atmosphere at the "drag," the unofficial practice space where bands refine their performances. Spanning two blocks near the Brooklyn Museum, the "drag" was abuzz with the rhythmic sounds of steelpan. I was lucky enough to catch glimpses of Philadelphia Pan Stars Steel Orchestra, Despers USA Steel Orchestra, Pan In Motion Steel Orchestra, and Steel Sensation Steel Orchestra in action. The energy was palpable, and it was clear that these bands were ready to give it their all.
As night fell, I made my way to the entrance of the Brooklyn Museum, where I found a long line that snaked along Eastern Parkway. The lines to get in were long, but they were moving. The sheer volume of attendees filled me with pride, a testament to the popularity and significance of this event within the Caribbean diaspora.
The show commenced promptly at 8pm, with Epic Steel Orchestra setting the stage with a few stirring renditions that included the Trinidad and Tobago national anthem. Then, the true magic of Panorama unfolded. Steel Sensation launched the competition with their energetic interpretation of Farmer Nappy's "How Ah Livin," arranged by Tristan Japsi, setting the bar high for the bands to follow.
The competition was fierce, each band vying for the coveted first place title. Each performance was a captivating display of skill and artistry, but certain moments stood out. Philadelphia Pan Stars Steel Orchestra ignited the crowd with their rendition of Olatunji's "Inventor," arranged by Roger Greenidge. The arrangement was met with thunderous applause, with many comparing it to the winning arrangement of Massy Trinidad All Stars Steel Orchestra in Trinidad and Tobago's Panorama.
The competition heated up further with Metro Steel Orchestra's energetic performance of the classic "Lorraine" by Explainer, arranged by Terrance "BJ" Marcelle. The crowd was buzzing, debating who would emerge victorious between Philadelphia and Metro.
Then, Pan Evolution took the stage, and the anticipation reached a fever pitch. Their rendition of Mical Teja's "DNA," arranged by Andre White, was a masterful journey through twists and turns. It was clear that the top three bands were a close call, with Philadelphia, Metro, and Pan Evolution captivating the audience.
When the dust settled, the results were announced, echoing the electric energy of the night. Pan Evolution emerged victorious, securing first place with a score of 278 points. Metro Steel Orchestra followed closely, capturing second place with 275 points. Philadelphia Pan Stars Steel Orchestra made a remarkable comeback, climbing from 8th place last year to third with 274 points.
Rounding out the top five were:
- 4th Place: D'Radoes Steel Orchestra - 270 Points
- 5th Place: Pan in Motion - 274 Points
A tie for 6th place with 263 Points went to Despers USA and Steel Sensation, with Harmony Music Makers securing 8th place with 244 points.
The NY Panorama was more than just a competition. It was a celebration of our shared heritage, a showcase of extraordinary talent, and a reminder of the enduring power of steel pan music to unite and inspire. The passion, energy, and artistry on display were truly inspiring, making it a night I won't soon forget.