Posted by Trinidesi on September 1, 2009 at 11:01am in News
Moments after receiving a national award, panman Len "Boogsie" Sharpe yesterday called on president of Pan Trinbago Patrick Arnold to step down.
Sandwiched between Arnold himself and Junior Culture Minister Junia Regrello, Sharpe told the media that the steelpan was dead in this country and only a person with business in their blood would be able to ensure its revival.
Sharpe, a musical director, received the prestigious Humming Bird medal (Gold) for his contribution to the culture of this country at the gala ceremony held at President's House St Ann's yesterday.
"It's an award for pan lovers, the whole pan fraternity this is for you," he said afterwards.
Asked if he was satisfied with the treatment of the national instrument in this country, he responded, "I am not satisfied. Pan dead right now. We need a big change in pan. Steelpan is a business, we need businessmen to run a business."
Turning to Arnold, he continued, "No disrespect, but I think from the heart, I think you and your crew should step down and take a rest. We have the best instrument in the world. Is 12 years they had. We need people with business qualification to run the organisation like any other business."
In an immediate response, Arnold said,"You have it wrong, you have it wrong. We have something new."
However, Sharpe maintained, "Right now steelpan down on the ground, nobody respect us."
Regrello then intervened, pledging the ministry's support to pan and saying that Government will do all it can to support the art forms.
(taken from trinidad express)
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The only musical instrument to be created in the 20th century, the steelpan is an expression of the creativity and vibrancy of the people of Trinidad and Tobago. Upon completion the PanTrinbago Headquarters will serve as the official home of the national instrument.
The site for the new headquarters comprises 11.5 acres off the Churchill Roosevelt Highway, Tacarigua, between the Orange Grove Road traffic lights and the Trincity Mall. UDeCOTT was tasked with completing the existing 20,598 sq. ft. three-storey, steel-framed building and related infrastructure structure.
The distinctive Pan Motif Roof Design will distinguish the building from other architecture in the area and identify it as the home of the steelpan. The facility will also include office accommodation for the employees of Pan Trinbago. There will also be a Conference Hall, Pan Demonstration Area, Pan Craft Accessory Display Area and Pan Info-internet Service and Library.
The building’s unique design and dynamic functions will inspire pride in the musical prestige of the steelpan and pay homage to the national heritage.
Replies
The only musical instrument to be created in the 20th century, the steelpan is an expression of the creativity and vibrancy of the people of Trinidad and Tobago. Upon completion the PanTrinbago Headquarters will serve as the official home of the national instrument.
The site for the new headquarters comprises 11.5 acres off the Churchill Roosevelt Highway, Tacarigua, between the Orange Grove Road traffic lights and the Trincity Mall. UDeCOTT was tasked with completing the existing 20,598 sq. ft. three-storey, steel-framed building and related infrastructure structure.
The distinctive Pan Motif Roof Design will distinguish the building from other architecture in the area and identify it as the home of the steelpan. The facility will also include office accommodation for the employees of Pan Trinbago. There will also be a Conference Hall, Pan Demonstration Area, Pan Craft Accessory Display Area and Pan Info-internet Service and Library.
The building’s unique design and dynamic functions will inspire pride in the musical prestige of the steelpan and pay homage
to the national heritage.
Nothing change, so AGAIN, we need new people to run PT.
Cecil:
Nothing happens until the pain of remaining the same outweighs the pain of change.
New people or new ideas? You can’t run a business organization from a headquarters that look like this.
ODW:
Vision without action is a daydream.
(If you have a steelband playing “California Dreaming” post it, nah?)
Action without vision is a nightmare.
That structure looks like a nightmare, would you not say?
Peter,
This is too painful for those who like to daydream and those who buy into false hopes...couldn't find "California Dreaming" hope this is appropriate.
Despers - Cry Me A River
ODW:
Not just deLighted. Appreciative.
Nice touch.
Just for you, Dr. deLight!!! A little white but still PAN!
Well Claude!
I know one thing — between you and ODW, we have the musical replies and responses covered. Musical librarians of the art. Case closed.
What further impresses is the fact you gave of your time. Well done.
The forum beats with life and is exuding love.
At least the GRASS IS GREEN!!!
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