URBAN FESTIVAL

        The photograph was taken at the PHASE II Pan Groove pan yard at #13 Hamilton Street, Woodbrook, Port of Spain. The photograph depicts that the national instrument, the steel pan is eminent amongst the nation and it draws a larger audience, both nationally and internationally. The steel pan competition is known as Panorama which is an annual competition, marking the start of Carnival.

The steel pan is a form of urban music, originating in the 1930’s in Laventille. Traditionally, the steel pan was associated with people from the ‘Ghetto’ as they had given birth to the instrument and was detested by the upper class. It was a manifestation of cultural retention and renewal by African descendants, and has proliferated throughout the nation and the world at large through globalization.

Through globalization, the Panorama competition has brought in economic gains through tourism, exporting of steel pan and national and international sponsorship. The harmonious sounds of the steel pan and its vibrant and energetic rhythms are infectious, reaching out to all age groups and social backgrounds.

History: In 1963, the government of Trinidad and Tobago in conjunction with the National Association of Trinidad and Tobago Steelbandsmen (NATTS) lunched a new steelband competition called Panorama

Personal Reflection: This image was taken at this angle because in my opinion it highlights the various social classes and also numerous face to face interactions. I was also able to bear witness, and enjoy the astounding music that emanated from our local ‘steelpan’. This was actually the first time I ever attended such an event and must I say, it truly was one I didn’t regret .I will definitely be returning next year.  The people were friendly and communicative, which made this experience even better. I actually felt like a tourist. This opportunity was one which I would never regret, and I fervently urge all my fellow classmates, to not miss out on this spectacular event. It really was an eye-opening experience, clearly demonstrating that Trinidad and Tobago is a blessed nation, filled with many wonders.

Relationship to textbook: Jane Jacobs pointed out in her famous book 'The Death of Life and Great American Cities', density and diversity of urban populations generate serendipity, unexpected encounters and "new combinations" that lead to innovation. This competition now brings together participants from approximately thirty-eight (38) steelband-playing countries from around the world to compete against each other for the title of ICP Champions. If you would like to experience the Panorama sounds, click the link https://youtu.be/3nwP15Kcf8k


References:

Steel Pan History and Development blog. The. http://www.steelpan-steeldrums-information.com/steel-pan-history.html. (accessed February 14, 2016)