The Story of Steelbands and the Steelband Art Form in St. Vincent - UpClose!

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During the 1950’s steelband competition was a regular feature of Carnival celebrations. This included not only a band competition, but, also a tenor pan competition for individual players noted for their dexterity. These were the early pioneers. Participants were called upon to play a “test piece” which was usually a non calypso. Bands also played a test piece non calypso in slow tempo followed by a calypso of choice. That calypso of choice had to be a newly released calypso for the particular year of competition and before 1970 was usually one out of Trinidad and Tobago.

Steelbands have come from all parts of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. From Chateaubelair, Fancy and Union Island they have journeyed to Kingstown to compete in the Panorama Competition.

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