Friday, March 7, 2025

Large Conventional Band Finals - Panorama 2025

 

🎶 Panorama 2025 Large Band Finals – A Night of Steelpan Mastery at the Queen’s Park Savannah! 🎶



The Queen’s Park Savannah transformed into the ultimate battleground of musical excellence on Saturday, March 1st, as the grand stage of the National Panorama Large Conventional Band Finals 2025 delivered an unforgettable spectacle of rhythm, power, and pure steelpan passion!

For weeks leading up to the finals, the air was thick with anticipation. Ten of the nation’s top large steel orchestras, representing the pinnacle of musical prowess, had battled their way through the preliminary and semi-final rounds, fine-tuning their arrangements, drilling tirelessly, and preparing for a final showdown that would determine who would be crowned the undisputed champion of Panorama 2025.



The Queen’s Park Savannah, fondly known as "The Big Yard," was packed to capacity, with thousands of pan lovers, from die-hard steelpan aficionados to first-time spectators, gathering under the starlit sky for what promised to be an epic night. This was no ordinary competition—this was a celebration of Trinidad and Tobago’s national instrument, a showcase of culture, and a testament to the unwavering passion of steelpan musicians.


🌟 The Battle for Steelpan Supremacy! 🌟

From the first thunderous roll of the bass pans to the final triumphant chords, the stage witnessed a musical war of titans.

Each steel orchestra brought distinctive energy, flair, and storytelling to their performances, leaving the judges and audience spellbound by the sheer brilliance of the steelpan.

But at the end of the night, one band stood above the rest—claiming the coveted title of Panorama 2025 Large Band Champions!




🏆 Final Results of Panorama 2025 – Large Band Finals 🏆



🥇 Republic Bank ExodusToo Own Way288 Points
🥈 BP Renegades Steel OrchestraBet Meh285 Points
🥉 Heritage Petroleum Skiffle Steel OrchestraRetro283 Points
4️
  First Citizens Supernovas Steel OrchestraCocoa Tea282 Points
5️
  Phase II Pan GroovePan and Soca281 Points
6️
  Nutrien Silver Stars Steel OrchestraToo Own Way280 Points
6️
  T&TEC Tropical Angel Harps Steel OrchestraCocoa Tea280 Points
8️
  Massy Trinidad All Stars Steel OrchestraBet Meh279 Points
9️
  Shell Invaders Steel OrchestraBlessing277 Points
9️
  RBC Redemption Sound Setters Steel OrchestraFlag Woman277 Points



Republic Bank Exodus delivered a performance that was simply unmatched—precision, musicality, and raw power combined in a mesmerizing display of steelpan brilliance. From the intricacies of the frontline pans to the commanding presence of the engine room, their arrangement was a masterclass in orchestration, execution, and showmanship.

As the final notes echoed across The Big Yard, there was no doubt—history had been made!


🎭 A Night of Passion, Power & Pure Pan! 🎭

The energy at the Queen’s Park Savannah was nothing short of electrifying. From the moment patrons streamed into the venue, the air was thick with excitement, camaraderie, and a shared love for the steelpan.

🔥 Massive crowds gathered from early evening, proudly waving flags and banners, donning their bands' colours, and chanting their anthems in support. The Savannah’s iconic Grand Stand and North Stand became a living, breathing sea of celebration, with fans grooving to the pulsating rhythms, losing themselves in the infectious spirit of Panorama.



🔥 Pan supporters from across the country and the world—from steelpan legends and past champions to first-time attendees—came together to witness the finest steel orchestras in the land battle for musical supremacy.

🔥 The judges sat with intense focus, analysing each performance with meticulous precision, taking in every note, every transition, and every moment of musical brilliance as bands delivered their finest performances of the season.



🔥 Even the night sky seemed to be in awe, as the echoes of steelpan harmonies rang through the Savannah, lifting spirits and igniting an unmatched atmosphere of joy and unity.


🎼 Panorama 2025: A Night of Unforgettable Performances 🎼

Each band took the stage with a fire in their hearts and history on their minds. The Big Yard was their canvas, and the steelpan their brush, painting sonic masterpieces that electrified the audience.



The arrangers, players, and engine rooms delivered performances that pushed the boundaries of musical innovation, blending the traditional with the contemporary to craft awe-inspiring renditions that left the judges with some of the toughest decisions in recent Panorama history.




🥇 Republic Bank Exodus – "Too Own Way" (288 Points) – The Victorious Thunderstorm!

Exodus was on a mission from the moment they struck the first note. Their performance of “Too Own Way” was a tour de force of precision, power, and execution, securing their first Panorama victory in nearly a decade.

🔥 A masterclass in dynamics, their arrangement took the audience on a rollercoaster ride of highs and lows, building suspense with smooth transitions before delivering earth-shattering climaxes that had the Grand Stand roaring.



🔥 The engine room set the stage ablaze, driving the rhythm with relentless energy, while the frontline tenors executed blistering fast runs that cut through the Savannah air like lightning bolts.

🔥 The entire orchestra moved as one entity, their synergy creating a commanding wall of sound that reverberated through every corner of the Big Yard.

As the final notes rang out, the anticipation was palpable. When the announcement came that Exodus had claimed the title, the eruption of cheers was deafening—their long-awaited moment of glory had arrived!


🥈 BP Renegades – "Bet Meh" (285 Points) – A Hair’s-Breadth from Victory!

Renegades came with fire in their belly, determined to defend their Panorama title. Their rendition of “Bet Meh” was a fusion of raw energy and technical brilliance, a testament to their unrivaled musical legacy.



🎶 The arrangement was bold and daring, with intricate counter-melodies weaving seamlessly into the main theme, creating a rich and multi-layered listening experience.

🎶 The bass section drove a deep, pulsating groove, locking in perfectly with the mid-range pans to create a hypnotic, immersive soundscape.

🎶 Renegades delivered one of the most synchronized performances of the night, executing complex transitions effortlessly, showcasing the kind of discipline and craftsmanship that defines champions.

It was a heartbreaker for Renegades, falling short by just three points, but their fans stood proud—knowing their band had left everything on that stage.


🥉 Heritage Petroleum Skiffle Steel Orchestra – "Retro" (283 Points) – The Dark Horse Triumphs!

Skiffle entered the finals as an underdog but left as a powerhouse. Their stunning performance of "Retro" paid homage to the golden era of steelpan, blending nostalgia with modern virtuosity.

💥 From the opening note, it was clear that Skiffle came to make a statement. The boldness of their arrangement, paired with their players’ undeniable passion, resulted in one of the night’s most exhilarating showcases.



💥 Their phrasing and transitions were immaculate, proving that the marriage of old-school pan feel with contemporary arrangement techniques is a winning formula.

💥 The band’s synergy and stage presence were magnetic, with players feeding off each other’s energy, delivering a performance that was as visually captivating as it was musically rich.

As Skiffle’s final notes soared into the Savannah night, there was no doubt—they had cemented themselves as serious contenders in the large band category.


4️   First Citizens Supernovas – "Cocoa Tea" (282 Points) – Precision and Elegance

Supernovas delivered a beautifully refined and technically pristine performance, showcasing artful phrasing, expressive tonal shifts, and expert control over dynamics.



🎼 The arrangement of “Cocoa Tea” was sophisticated and layered, with sweet harmonic blends that gave the performance a nostalgic yet fresh feel.

🎼 The engine room balanced power and groove, maintaining the pulse of the performance without overpowering the melodic sections.

🎼 The pacing and build-up to the climax were masterful, and when the final swell of sound exploded across the Big Yard, the crowd erupted in admiration.


5️   Phase II Pan Groove – "Pan and Soca" (281 Points) – The Grooviest Show of the Night!

Phase II Pan Groove lived up to their name, delivering a rhythm-heavy, high-energy performance that had the crowd dancing from start to finish.

💃 Their take on “Pan and Soca” was a masterclass in infectious groove, blending the melodic richness of steelpan with the pulsating energy of soca music.

💃 The arrangement featured bold call-and-response patterns, where different sections of the band played off each other, creating a dynamic and playful interaction.



💃 The percussive elements were so tight and punchy that the entire Savannah seemed to move in unison with the beat.

Though they finished outside the top three, Phase II Pan Groove once again proved why they are one of the most beloved bands in steelpan history.


6️   Nutrien Silver Stars & T&TEC Tropical Angel Harps – The Tied Titans! (280 Points)

These two bands proved why they belong in the upper echelons of Panorama.



🥁 Nutrien Silver Stars’ "Too Own Way" was a fierce, full-throttle performance, featuring intricate pan runs and dazzling musical textures that kept the audience on edge.

🥁 T&TEC Tropical Angel Harps' "Cocoa Tea" was a masterclass in controlled energy, allowing the melody to shine through while still packing a percussive punch.



Both bands tied for 6th place, demonstrating that the competition was closer than ever this year.


8️  Massy Trinidad All Stars – "Bet Meh" (279 Points) – A Fan Favorite!

All Stars delivered a performance full of showmanship and steelpan swagger, reminding the world why they are Panorama giants.



Their interpretation of "Bet Meh" was bold and commanding, with well-timed syncopations that added extra fire to their phrasing.


9️  Shell Invaders & RBC Redemption Sound Setters (277 Points) – The Rising Stars!

These two bands held their own among the veterans, proving that they have what it takes to compete at the highest level.



🔥 Shell Invaders’ “Blessing” was a powerful, emotionally charged performance that resonated deeply with the audience.

🔥 RBC Redemption Sound Setters’ "Flag Woman" was a nostalgic nod to calypso history, played with joy and reverence, capturing the essence of Carnival.




A Night of Steelpan Perfection!

The 2025 Panorama Large Band Finals delivered everything that steelpan lovers could have hoped for—thrilling performances, fierce competition, and moments of pure magic.

Every band left their heart on that stage, and whether they won the title or not, they reminded the world that steelpan is the most powerful musical force to come out of the Caribbean.

Long live the pan! 🎶🔥🥁

The audience lived and breathed every note, waving rags, jumping, and immersing themselves in the energy of the night, proving once again that Panorama is not just a competition—it is a movement, a festival, a spiritual experience.




🌴 The Big Yard – A Mecca for Steelpan Excellence! 🌴

🌟 The acoustics carried the sweet sounds of the steelpan effortlessly, allowing every note, every run, and every pulse from the engine room to resonate deeply within the hearts of those in attendance.

🌟 The night’s visuals were equally breathtaking, as colorful lights illuminated the massive orchestras, dancers added an extra layer of storytelling to the performances, and the undeniable aura of Carnival fever filled the air.

🌟 T&T’s cultural heartbeat was on full display, as the steelpan—our nation’s gift to the world—once again reigned supreme in its grandest showcase of the year.


🎉 A Night for the History Books! 🎉

Panorama 2025 was more than just a competition—it was a celebration of the national instrument, a reaffirmation of the cultural strength of Trinidad and Tobago, and a showcase of the limitless potential of steelpan music.

Pan Trinbago salutes every player, arranger, tuner, and supporter who made this Panorama season a resounding success. You are the heartbeat of this movement, and we thank you for keeping the spirit of pan alive!






🔥 What’s Next? Carnival Lagniappe! 🔥

With the Panorama season now closed, the road leads to the ultimate celebration—Carnival Lagniappe!

🌟 Steelpan is not just music—it’s a movement.
🌟 The Panorama crown has been claimed, but the journey continues.
🌟 Long live the steelpan!


#Panorama2025 #LargeBandFinals #SteelpanExcellence #PanTrinbago #SteelpanFuhSo #UnleashDPower #TrinidadAndTobagoCulture


 

Tuesday, February 25, 2025

Medium Conventional Bands Finals- Panorama 2025



 

🎶 Panorama 2025 Medium Band Finals – Katzenjammers Makes History with First Hat-Trick Victory! 🎶

Sunday, February 23rd, 2025, will be etched in the annals of Panorama history as a night when Tobago’s beloved Katzenjammers Steel Orchestra redefined musical dominance, sealing their first-ever hat-trick of championships at the National Panorama Medium Conventional Band Finals.

With the iconic Parade Grounds in Tobago as the battleground, ten of the nation’s most formidable medium steel orchestras delivered powerhouse performances in pursuit of the coveted Panorama title. The stakes were high, the competition was fierce, and the passion of steelpan lovers from across the islands turned the stadium into a vibrant, pulsating cathedral of sound.



For weeks leading up to the finals, anticipation buzzed through the pan community. Katzenjammers, leaders from the preliminary stage, were on a mission to etch their name in the records yet again, chasing an extraordinary feat—their first hat-trick in their storied history, a journey that began back in 2011.



🎭 A Night of Celebration, Steel, and Spectacle! 🎭

As the sun dipped behind the rolling hills of Tobago, the stadium began to fill with eager patrons, from dedicated pan aficionados to first-time Panorama attendees, all drawn by the spellbinding allure of the steelpan.

By the time the first band struck its opening note, the electricity in the air was palpable. Thousands of fans, draped in their bands’ colours, waved flags, shouted slogans, and danced in the aisles, creating a Carnival atmosphere unlike any other. The sweet scent of local cuisine drifted through the venue, and the rhythmic pulse of the steel bands in the distance added to the sensory spectacle.



From the VIP sections to the general stands, the excitement was fever-pitched. The presence of dignitaries, music legends, and international steelpan enthusiasts underscored the global appeal of Panorama, while Tobago’s warmth and hospitality ensured that the night would be one of musical magic and camaraderie.

🏆 Katzenjammers: A Legacy of Excellence! 🏆

When Katzenjammers Steel Orchestra finally took the stage, the crowd erupted in thunderous applause, a testament to the reverence and admiration they command.

With sticks poised, poised players ready, and a championship on the line, the band launched into their selection, “Lying Excuses” composed by the Mighty Sparrow, arranged by the brilliant Kersh Ramsey.



The musical tapestry they wove was nothing short of masterful. From the explosive opening bars to the intricate counter-melodies and dramatic crescendos, Katzenjammers delivered a performance that was technically brilliant, emotionally gripping, and aesthetically commanding.

The judges, captivated by the balance, clarity, and tonal depth, awarded them 281 points, cementing their third consecutive Panorama Medium Band title—a feat they first achieved between 2011 and 2013.



🏆 This was the second time Katzenjammers was going for a hat-trick. The first time was a milestone in steelpan history, as they tied with Valley Harps. Valley Harps arranger Michelle Huggins-Watts the first female arranger to win a Panorama Medium Band title. Valley Harps played Do Something For Pan composed by Len "Boogsie" Sharpe and Gregory Valentine and Katzenjammers played Wake Up composed by Edwin Pouchet and Alvin Daniel arranged by Edwin Pouchet tied with 275 points to win 2011 Medium Bands title, Katzenjammers then sealed their outright victory in 2012 with 288 points playing This Is Bacchanal, composed by Edwin Pouchet and Alvin Daniel, arranged by the talented Edwin Pouchet.



Now, in 2025, under the guidance of Kersh Ramsey, Katzenjammers has once again ascended to the pinnacle of the artform, proving that their legacy is not just one of nostalgia but an active, undeniable force in the medium band category.



🎖 Final Scores of the Night:

🥇 Katzenjammers Steel OrchestraLying Excuses281 points
🥈 Pan EldersMih Lover279 points
🥉 Couva JoylandersCut The Bush275 points (Tied)
🥉 PamberiToo Own Way275 points (Tied)
5️⃣ La Brea NightingalesFlag Woman272.5 points
6️⃣ Arima Angel HarpsFiery269 points (Tied)
6️⃣ Sound Specialists of LaventilleJump and Wave269 points (Tied)
8️⃣ DixielandLong Time268 points
9️⃣ Curepe ScherzandoCome With It264 points (Tied)
9️⃣ SforzataSomebody264 points (Tied)







🔥 Musical Highlights from the Night! 🔥

Each steel orchestra brought its own unique flavour to the competition, crafting performances that blended technical excellence with emotional depth and pure entertainment.

🎶 Pan Elders gave an electrifying, groove-filled performance of “Mih Lover”, missing out on the title by just two points, an agonizingly close second-place finish that left their supporters both proud and hungry for redemption in Panorama 2026.

🎶 Couva Joylanders and Pamberi proved that the battle for third place was no easy feat, with both bands tying on 275 points, their respective renditions of “Cut The Bush” and “Too Own Way” showing incredible depth, creativity, and storytelling. Pamberi won the Andre Franco trophy for the best dressed band.



🎶 La Brea Nightingales took audiences on a journey back in time with their nostalgic and passionate delivery of “Flag Woman”, arranged by Vanessa Headley Brewster was a definite crowd favourite that resonated deeply with pan lovers.

🎶 Arima Angel Harps and Sound Specialists of Laventille turned the heat up with fiery, pulse-racing performances that had spectators jumping, waving, and completely absorbed in the pan-driven excitement.






🌴 Tobago: The Beating Heart of Panorama 2025! 🌴

Tobago, stood proud and tall as the host of this exhilarating night. The island’s deep steelpan roots were evident not just in the stellar performances but in the unwavering support from the people of Tobago.

The Parade Grounds provided the perfect setting, its vast expanse transformed into a haven of harmony, where music lovers from across the country and beyond celebrated the soul of the national instrument.



It was a testament to the power of pan—an artform that unites communities, electrifies crowds, and continues to elevate the musical heritage of Trinidad and Tobago.



🎼 The Journey Continues: Large Band Finals Await! 🎼

With the Medium Band Finals now etched in the history books, all attention shifts to the grand showdown—the National Panorama Large Band Finals!

Will a new champion emerge, or will the defending champions complete their hat trick?

One thing is certain—steelpan is alive, thriving, and more exhilarating than ever.

Pan Trinbago salutes every arranger, tuner, player, supporter, and steelpan lover who made this night one for the ages. Tobago, you were incredible, and Panorama 2025 has been nothing short of spectacular!

Until the next showdown—Long Live Pan! Steelpan Fuh So! Unleash D Power!


#Panorama2025 #MediumBandFinals #SteelpanExcellence #Legacy #PanTrinbago #SteelpanFuhSo # UnleashDPower

Large Conventional Band Finals - Panorama 2025

  🎶 Panorama 2025 Large Band Finals – A Night of Steelpan Mastery at the Queen’s Park Savannah! 🎶 The Queen’s Park Savannah transformed...