Trinidad Express Newspapers
The life and work of Ian “Teddy” Belgrave remembered and celebrated at funeral service
Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - Eulogised as a great intellect, panman, mentor, teacher and activist, the life and work of Ian “Teddy” Belgrave was remembered and celebrated at his funeral service yesterday, at the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Port of Spain.
As he delivered the homily, Canon Knolly Clarke said Belgrave must be celebrated for his great insights, talents and gifts and his legacy of integrity he left behind.
Political leader of the Movement for Social Justice, David Abdulah, said Belgrave left a legacy after re-establishing the Oilfields Workers’ Trade Union (OWTU) Education and Research Department.
....There were also tributes from Nestor Sullivan of Pamberi Steel Orchestra and Belgrave’s friend and colleague, Wendy Augustus and a musical interlude by the Codrington Pan Family.
There was a large turnout of family, friends, well-wishers and comrades in the trade union and pan movement who joined in singing the trade union song, “Solidarity Forever” as Belgrave’s casket was wheeled out of the cathedral.
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Trinidad Express Newspapers
Remembering Teddy Belgrave
Trinidad & Tobago, W.I. - ....[Ian “Teddy”] Belgrave was considered an icon within both the steelband and labour movement fraternities. One of the founding members of the Birdsong Steel Orchestra, Belgrave dedicated much of his life to the development of the pan and also to the growth and development of panists. Fellow Birdsong foundation member, Dennis Phillip told the Express it was in fact Belgrave who initially came up with the idea of forming the steelband that was originally based at the University of the West Indies.
“The idea of Birdsong originated with Teddy who was the most experienced panman among all of us back then. He also established certain foundation principles in Birdsong that still endure.
“Teddy pointed out the need to push the envelope to evolve the pan and push the boundaries of the music and the technology. He led the way in integrating the pan with other instruments and also the poetry and pan project. Teddy always wanted Birdsong to remain rooted in the community of Tunapuna/St Augustine,” Phillip said.
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Replies
Thanks for your contribution in molding the lives of many. You were a genius in the movement and will be sorely missed. May you have eternal rest.