A patch from the signature wall in the steelpan laboratory at UWI, St AUgustine
The following statement on the passing of Ken Philmore is issued by the Pro Vice-Chancellor and Campus Principal of The University of the West Indies St. Augustine Campus, Professor Brian Copeland.
It was with deep sadness that I received word of the passing of Ken “Professor” Philmore yesterday, September 30. “Prof” was not just a remarkable proponent of the art of pan, but a really energetically kind-spirited individual as well. He was a shining example to young aspiring pannists everywhere. The world has lost another steelpan great, this one going all too soon.
Although my association with “Prof” was a relatively brief one, I was proud to have him collaborate with us in the early days of the development of the Percussive Harmonic Instrument (P.H.I.). As I recall, he was probably the first such professional collaborator to carry a test unit home. It was through him that we got a full appreciation of the level of professionalism required in our work. It was because of him, and his critique of that early design, that the instrument took the form that it has today. He also assisted in the development of the stands for the G-Pan and the P.H.I.
He leaves a legacy of dynamic stage performance and a deep unshakeable love of and commitment to pan and music. If we truly honour that legacy, we who are left behind should make every effort to do all that is necessary to build on the foundation that Ken “Professor” Philmore and other departed steelpan pioneers created. Significantly, the leaders of the steelpan community need to come together to ensure that each aspect of the industry is sustainably developed to its fullest potential.
On behalf of The UWI community and the P.H.I. development team I extend condolences to his relatives, in particular, his wife and children. May his soul rest in the peace that awaits us all.
Replies
Much appreciated comments Copeland; more for the history book as well. Cheers.