"This hurts. I knew Pro was loved by many, but today I realise he was loved by all. When we get caught up in our emotions, we may feel that his passing was too soon, unfair, a real shame. But there is no doubt in my mind that the first Professor of pan has done what his Creator sent him to this earth to do.
I accompanied Pro, as a Steelpan soloist, on a trip to Antigua for one of his live performances there, hosted by Gemonites Moods of Pan. In short, it was one of the highlights of my musical life. This past week culminating in the funeral service of Ken, was nothing short of epic. I think in the context of the current climate of our pan community, even in death he proved to us that love conquers all. I chipped up the Coffee yesterday, behind Fonclaire, toward the funeral home. At one time I was next to a lady holding a baby that could be no more than 6 months old. She said to me, "We doin' this for Pro!" I could go on and on about the encouraging and revitalizing words Pro shared with me on every occasion we met, always preceded by a big hug, a huge kiss and an invitation to rub his bald head. He was a mentor without trying to be. I could pontificate about his musical genius and the joy and pain that loving pan brought him. But in closing I would say, to the family of Ken Professor Philmore, we all share in your loss and we all share in the gift that was Pro." - Vanessa
Vanessa Headley - Panist, Arranger, Composer, Broadcaster...
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Thank you Vanessa . He touched all of us and his contribution to culture will live on. #cultureliveshere
When we give LOVE we receive LOVE, lesson learnt...