The Members of LIME Hells Gate Steel Orchestra extends condolences to the family of Dr. Pat Bishop and the Steelpan fraternity.
I can recall that subsequent to adjudicating the Antigua and Barbuda National Panorama [1986 ], Dr. Pat Bishop returned to Antigua later that year to conduct a workshop, focusing on music thoery, arranging techniques, and performance. One evening, Dr. Bishop came to Hells Gate Panyard, unannounced. Our arranger Mr. Alan Micheal was present and we were rehearsing the "Hooked on Classics" medley, which Mr. Micheal had arranged for Hells Gate Steel Orchestra. Dr. Bishop approached Mr. Micheal and enquired of him about the piece the orchestra was rehearsing, and to our surprise, she dropped her hand bag on the floor and took over the rehearsals for a short while. At the end of her short stint, she admonished us to learn music theory and put it into practice. She then suggested to Mr. Micheal that he should assist us with music theory lessons. Dr. Bishop's kind assistance and sound advice continue to reflect in the many successes of Hells Gate Steel Orchestra today. Thank you Dr. Bishop.
It is important to note that in my opinion, Dr. Pat Bishop was the only Trinidadian adjudicator whose comments, subsequent to adjudicating a Panorama, were always objective; and her criticisms were always honest.
Farewell Dr. Bishop. Your will always be present in the music we play. Your sound and honest advice will live on for generations. Because of the many lives you have touched, and the musical heights you have taken the Steelpan to, Pan will live on forever.
Rest in PAN.
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