Trinidad and Tobago - It is being hailed as one of the biggest steelpan event in San Fernando for this year, “The HELP A HERO Benefit Concert”. This is being held on Republic Day, Thursday September 24th, at the Skiffle Pan Theatre, Coffee Street, San Fernando. Starting time is 6:00pm.
The “hero” in question is one of South’s pan elders, Lennox “Sam” Fortune of San City fame.
Popular steelbands such as Republic Bank Exodus, Skiffle, San City Steel and King’s Row Retro Riddims have rallied to the cause and will provide entertainment. Admission is free, however, patrons are asked to make a cash donation towards this worthy cause.
Fortune has been the musical director and tuner for San City since its inception and is responsible for many young musicians and tuners in and around San Fernando.
He had served as captain of Hatters Steel Orchestra for many years before starting San City Steel Symphony in 1989 and was one of the first persons approached by the then CEO to form a San Fernando City Corporation steel band. From 1989 to Carnival 2015 Fortune has dedicated his life to ensure that the San City Steel Symphony developed and grew from strength to strength.
“Sam” has been partially crippled for many years after falling off of a truck transporting pans for Hatters Steel Orchestra. Despite his injuries which has hindered his ability to walk properly, he has been a driving force within the band.
Until his retirement in 2013, Sam was a dedicated employee of the San Fernando City Corporation.
In recent months, his disability has worsened since falling and sustaining a broken hip. This injury has caused him to become bedridden. San City’s aim is to see him walk again.
As Aquil Arrindell, captain/arranger explained: “We believe this is possible with the right medical attention and therapy.
We are calling on all pannists and tuners who have benefitted from Sam’s knowledge and expertise to come out and support him as he needs all our help to overcome this situation.
Show your support on the day by giving a generous donation while you enjoy the sweet music of steel pan.” he ended.
For further information contact Aquil Arrindell at 727 8203 or aquilite@yahoo.com
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