🎶 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 Orchestra – Lying Excuses – 281 points
🥈 Pan Elders – Mih Lover – 279 points
🥉 Couva Joylanders – Cut The Bush – 275 points (Tied)
🥉 Pamberi – Too Own Way – 275 points (Tied)
5️⃣ La Brea Nightingales – Flag Woman – 272.5 points
6️⃣ Arima Angel Harps – Fiery – 269 points (Tied)
6️⃣ Sound Specialists of Laventille – Jump and Wave – 269 points (Tied)
8️⃣ Dixieland – Long Time – 268 points
9️⃣ Curepe Scherzando – Come With It – 264 points (Tied)
9️⃣ Sforzata – Somebody – 264 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!
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