If you like, go ahead and tell your fellow WST Ning members about yourself here
I am a Tradeunionist by profession, and a co-founder of the Antigua and Barbuda Free Trade Union (the third general trade union to be establshed on the twin island state of Antigua and Barbuda), which was established on 7th March, 2010. I currently hold the position of General Secretary
I became aware of the Steelpan artform when I was about six (6) yeaars old. Mr. George 'Nugget' Joseph, who lived across the street from my parents home in Ottos, was a member of the Hells Gate Steel Orchestra ,and his son who was my best friend, would always tell me when his father and Hells Gate travelled to St.Thomas or to St. Croix USVI.
My first experience in playing the Pan, was when I started secondary school in 1967. The St. Joseph's Academy was the only school on the island that had a Steel Orchestra then. The name of the Orchestra is, St. Joseph's Academy Rhythm Masters. The Orchestra was established in 1958.and have been the current Secondary Schools Panorama Champions for the past three years. I currently serve as Pan Tutor and Co-ordinator for the SJA Rhythm Masters.
I became a member of the Hells Gate Steel Orchestra (estb. 1945), in the summer of 1972 and remain a member to date. I served as Captain from November 1980 to October, 2003, and I am currently a Trustee and Pan Tutor of the Orchestra.
In 2001, I was instrumental in establishing the Eustace "Manning" Henry Steelpan Academy. The Academy provides tutoring for students age 6 and upwards. On Fridays, 6:00pm to 8:00 pm - Adult Class (inclusive of Seniors). On Saturdays, from 9:30 am to 10:30 am - Beginners Class; 10:45 am to 12:15 pm - Intermediate Class; 12:30 pm to 4:00 pm - Advance Class. The Adult Classes and Advanced Classes are my responsibilities. The Orchestra offer these classes "pro bono" to the nation of Antigua and Barbuda.
I also volunteer my personal time to provide tutorial services to a numer of church organizations on Antigua.
Thoughout it all, the names of Mr. Eustace "Manning" Henry", Mr. Clarence Simon and George "Nugget" Joseph, my mentors, will remain etched in my memory.
I would always remain greatful and thankful to God for the gift of wisdom and knowledge which He has bestowed upon me.
Stafford Joseph
