There have been an outpouring of sympathy , remembrances and accolades with the passing of one of the must important and accomplished of the steelpan pioneers , and rightly so.
Where I disagree , however is with those who claim that Dr. Ellie Mannette was not well recognized or appreciated in his own country.
Dr.Mannette was well recognized in T&T and even around the world ,and known to many with even a casual knowledge of the art-form.
But , what may seem to be a lack of appreciation of the genius and talent of Dr. Mannette in T&T is not personal ,
It stems from a national lack of true recognition and appreciation of the entire art-form , its culture , its creators and its pioneers.
Many of the creators , innovators and pioneers of the art-form are still around.
Though not as celebrated as Dr. Mannette , these people also played important roles in the creation of the art-form.
One can only hope that these cultural heroes be recognized and appreciated while they are still around.
Before it is too late.
Replies
If he was recognized and appreciated by T&T, why his reluctance to come back to visit? Is Tony Williams recognized and appreciated as he should? Who cares about Skip?
"It stems from a national lack of true recognition and appreciation of the entire art-form, its culture, its creators and its pioneers."
Totally agree Glenroy, with the advancement of technological TOOLS the class-rooms in T&T can be redesigned where our young ones can learn more about their work and achievements, for some a CELL PHONE can provide an avenue for independent study.
APPRECIATION...