Panwave Steel Band Academy is the epitome of passion. It is fascinating to watch the band members –all youths – play the steel pan. Their passion for getting every music note on key is admirable. Most importantly, they passionately hone their talent to keep steel pan music alive.
Speaking with Guyana Times Sunday Magazine, Cary Gillis, a music teacher, member of the Parkside Steel Orchestra and steel pan instructor, stated Panwave is an after-school programme to help youths learn steel pan and also develop music literacy.
In collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, the programme targets students coming from depressed backgrounds and those who have a desire to learn steel pan but do not have access to the instruments.
“I started playing steel pan at my school, President’s College. I graduated from there and went on to pursue my tertiary education. My brother, at that time, was playing steel pan and encouraged me to join Parkside, and I have not turned back since. Steel pan has a unique sound which you cannot get electronically. Steel pan is not only about the music but also about the show and the vibes you give off. If the players cannot do that then the audience would not enjoy themselves. For students and myself, it is also a means of self-expression,” Gillis noted.
Initially, Panwave’s programme was held at St Gabriel’s Primary School, targeting the primary school children there. The aim, according to Gillis, was to preserve steel pan by teaching the youths, and this has not changed.
“There was an overwhelming response from the youths, and so we then decided to expand the programme. We have trained over 400 children from various schools. We target anyone below the age of 18. Many of the students presently have been with the band since they were very young and have grown together as a band,” Gillis pointed out.
After completing the programme, Gillis said, the youths are encouraged to join Parkside to continue playing steel pan. They have honed their talents and can relate the theoretical aspect of music using the steel pan.
“Generally, music teaches you discipline. It keeps you focused and helps with your memory. Being focused and dedicated, students excel in their school work. Panwave practices twice a week for an hour because we do not want to engage students mentally for a long period because they are coming from a long day of school. Our programmes are fun, and the youths enjoy playing together and sharing a mutual energy and passion for steel pan,” expressed Gillis.
In 2005, Panwave had its first win in a steel pan competition, but sadly the programme went into hiatus until 2009 when it was resuscitated. Classes have been ongoing since at the Christ Church Parish on Waterloo Street.
“In March, I am hoping to start a new beginners group. Students who have an interest in steel pan, though they may not know how to play, can join. Initially, it will be challenging, but after training it will come easily,” the instructor encouraged.
Panwave continues to play at concerts throughout the year, and competes in various steel pan competitions. Although they have not won any competitions since 2005, Gillis said they are determined and prepared to take the winner’s trophy in their next competition.
Sponsorship is important for the band’s survival as the programme is free of cost. Gillis thanked its recent sponsor, New GPC Inc, for their financial support, and said the donation will be instrumental in maintaining the band.
Speaking to Sunday Magazine, a few band members expressed their appreciation for the programme because it has helped them become well-rounded individuals.
Dannika Giddings said she has been with Panwave for three years and was encouraged by her sister, who played steel pan, to learn about it. “I saw her passion and it motivated me to get into it. In learning steel pan, I get to learn all about music reading and writing and this helps me to be a well-rounded individual. I invest a lot of energy and time and I enjoy it a lot. I have a passion for it and will continue to play as long as I can.”
Darius Austin, who has been with the band for two years, was encouraged to join the steel band when a group of steel pan players visited his school. “I used to play the drum so I decided to join Panwave to learn more about music. It takes a lot of dedication to play steel pan but it is very fun and a good sweat out. Also, steel pan has helped me to be a more responsible and focused individual.”
With Panwave for two years, Miriam Gaskin stated that she always had a passion for music, singing and playing the piano. Encouraged by her mother, Miriam decided to learn about steel pan. “Now, I fully enjoy it. I understand a lot more about music. It is my life and I am very passionate about it. I would encourage everyone to be part of this programme, even if you may not know anything about it.” (Guyana Times Sunday Magazine)
