Trinidad and Tobago musicians hold pan workshops in Belize

The Musical Instruments of Trinidad and Tobago Company Ltd (MITTCO) is in Belize to hold pan training workshops and take part in collaborative musical events from August 21-26.

A media release said MITTCO, a pioneer in promoting and preserving the cultural heritage of TT through its musical instruments, will be hosted by Lynn Raymond Young, ambassador of Belize to the United States.

The week-long activities are aimed at fostering a deeper appreciation for the rich cultural traditions of pan music, the release said.

The team, which includes Junior Franklyn, tuner, MITTCO; alongside Prof Liam Teague from Northern Illinois University, and Akua Leith, will partner with local institutions in Belize to hold workshops in pan tuning, maintenance, performance and rehearsal techniques. The workshops will offer participants an invaluable opportunity to learn from the best in the field and contribute to the global propagation of pan, the release said.

The initiative is being endorsed by Tourism Trinidad. Highlighting the collaboration, CEO Carla Cupid said, "It is a natural progression to support MITTCO in their endeavours to spread the beauty of our cultural heritage to Belize. This initiative not only showcases our vibrant steelpan music but also promotes cross-cultural exchange and artistic collaboration. Such initiatives align perfectly with our commitment to showcasing the cultural brew of our always-in-season brand to the world."

The activities will end with a concert on August 25 by a Belizean steelband, conducted by Carlos Perrote, featuring Teague, Leith, director – sales and business development at MITTCO, and Young.

During its visit, MITTCO will also meet potential sponsors interested in contributing to the Pan in School initiative. This initiative aims to introduce pan music to educational institutions, fostering the growth of future generations of talented musicians, the release said.

Expressing his enthusiasm over the possibilities, Leith said, “Belize is no stranger to the steelpan instrument, with its first steelband being formed in 1969.

"We are excited about our opportunity to continue the passion for steelpan music with the people of Belize. This venture not only strengthens the bonds between our nations, but also contributes towards the global recognition of steelpan music as an artform of unparalleled beauty and significance.”

The timing of this event coincides with Pan Month, which continues until August 31 and the UN's' declaration of World Steelpan Day on August 11 – the day MITTCO celebrated its first anniversary.

Tourism Trinidad said it is "encouraging everyone to join in the local festivities and embrace the universal language of music, as MITTCO and Belize collaborate to create a harmonious bridge between cultures through the enchanting notes of the pan."