Remembering the legendary George Goddard - An Extraordinary leader

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Who Am I? A Breakdown Of George “Sonny” Goddard’s Accomplishments

by George D. Goddard Jr.

 Born on 28 April 1924,  East Dry River, Port of Spain, Trinidad

George Goddard


Steelband performers in Trinidad and Tobago (steeldrum’s birthplace) since 1950, have been represented by three organizations: the Steelbands Association, the National Association of Trinidad and Tobago Steelbandsmen (NATTS), and (now) Pan Trinbago.

One man served as the head of all three. George “Sonny” Goddard (1924-1988).

He is the only president of any of the three organizations to be re-elected to the post, not once, but (at least) ten times!

In all, he served as steelbands’ leader during the years 1957-1959, 1962-1971, and 1978-1979.

He is also the only president of either organization to hold government appointed positions (including Cultural Adviser to the Prime Minister). He also served as an executive member of the Carnival Development Committee (CDC).

His involvement in steelbands began in 1941, as a 17-year old joining the world’s first steelband, Alexander’s Ragtime Band, as a masquerader.

He was an executive member of Trinidad and Tobago’s first steelbands’ “union”, the Steelbands Association, in 1950, after being elected to the post of Vice-Secretary.

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