Chinese Steel Ensemble celebrates World Steelpan Day

THE Trinidad and Tobago Chinese Steel Ensemble (TTCSE) has congratulated the national steelpan community on the second anniversary of the UN’s declaration of World Steelband Day for their contribution to the country's cultural heritage.

The UN declared August 11 World Steelpan Day on July 24, 2023.

The TTCSE said that the steelpan is the only musical instrument invented in the 20th century and “possesses cultural and historical importance to TT and has contributed significantly to the cultural diversity (and) development of this country.

On July 4, 2024, the National Musical Instrument Bill was passed in Parliament, officially designating the steelpan as the national instrument.

“This decision was also a tribute to the steelpan’s cultural significance and global influence, and its role in shaping national identity.”

The TTCSE said UN’s decision recognises the steelpan for "promoting inclusive societies, contributing to the creative economy, and having a positive impact on mental health, gender equality, and youth empowerment.

"It is against this background that the TTCSE is proud to be a member of the steelpan fraternity of Trinidad and Tobago .”

The band was formed in 2006 to commemorate the 200th year of Chinese arrival in Trinidad and Tobago, and is believed to be the first all-Chinese steelpan band in the world.

“The TTCSE has contributed both locally and internationally at forging cultural integration through the steelpan by playing, not just the music traditionally played on pans but incorporating Chinese music in its repertoire of songs.

“The interpretation of Chinese music on steelpans, with a blend of Trini flavour has made this band unique.

“Comprised of persons of Chinese heritage, it is noteworthy that many of its players started playing as novices who had no prior exposure to playing any musical instrument.

“Furthermore, the band is also multi-generational with children and parents, sisters and brothers playing side by side.”

Susan Young is the captain.

The TTCSE plays Chinese folk songs fused with rhythms of the Caribbean and South America, as well as soca, classical, Indian and pop pieces. Its mandate involves maintaining at least 50 per cent of its repertoire as songs of Chinese origin.

The band lost several members, who decided to further their studies and pursue other goals, during the covid19 pandemic.

“The band has (since) regrouped and has been assiduously practising,” it said.

The band is preparing for the annual Chinese Arrival Dragon Boat Festival in Chaguaramas in October, where it will make its first public appearance since 2019.

It also plans to attend the Spring Festival and China National Day celebrations in 2025.