Honouring Excellence and Legacy: Pan Trinbago Hosts Grand Steelband Champions Ceremony and Prize Distribution

The spirit of national pride and musical excellence echoed loudly on April 15, 2025, as Pan Trinbago, in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and the Arts, hosted the Steelband Champions Prize Distribution Ceremony at the Radisson Hotel, Port of Spain.

The event recognized outstanding achievements across the 2024 National Steelband Music Festival — Steelpan is More Beautiful: Canopeum Amoris, and Panorama 2025 — Steelpan Fuh So: Unleash D Power, along with the winners of the J’ouvert Monday Bomb and the King of the Road competition.

With over 300 guests in attendance, including senior Government officials, the Steelpan Ambassadors corporate sponsors, Steelband members, and cultural stakeholders, the ceremony was a fitting tribute to the national instrument and those who champion its cause.
Nearly TT$25 million was distributed in prizes and player remittances. Over TT$4.4 million was allocated to 5,551 registered steelpan players, along with TT$2.3 million disbursed as Steelband support during the Panorama season. 

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Celebrating the Champions: Festival and Panorama Excellence

The evening celebrated the finest in steelpan artistry.
Steelpan is More Beautiful 2024 – Canopeum Amoris saw top awards handed out to the finalists in:

Single Pan Bands

     Pan Elites - 8^th Place 

     Trinidad and Tobago East Side Symphony - 7^th Place 

     Nostrand Symphony - 6^th Place 

     Trinidad and Tobago Police Service - 5^th Place 

     Platinum - 4^th Place Champions

     La Famille United - 3^rd Place 

     Chord Masters - 2^nd Place 

     Uni Stars - 1^st Place 

1.     Ensemble Bands

     Alumknights - 6^th Place 

     Phoenix - 5th Place 

     Alpha Pan Pioneers - 4^th Place 

     Hilltoppers Steelpan Academy - 3^rd Place 

     St Margaret’s Super Stars - 2^nd Place 

     Golden Hands - 1^st Place 

           

3.             Orchestra Bands

     Courts Sound Specialists of Laventille - 8^th Place 

     T&TEC Tropical Angel Harps Steel Orchestra - 6^th Place (tie)

     Pan Elders Steel Orchestra - 6^th Place (tie)

     Proman Starlift Steel Orchestra - 5^th Place 

     Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force Steel Orchestra - 4^th Place 

     Katzenjammers Steel Orchestra - 3^rd Place 

     NGC Couva Joylanders Steel Orchestra - 2^nd Place 

     Republic Bank Exodus - 1^st Place Champion

 

Simultaneously, Panorama 2025 – Steelpan Fuh So: Unleash D Power recognized the champions across all conventional band categories:  Junior (Under 21), Single Pan, Small, Medium, and Large.

1.     Panorama 2025 - Junior Panorama - 21 & Under Category

     Phase II Pan Groove Junior Steel Orchestra - 11^th Place (tie)

     Birdsong Academy - 11^th Place(tie)

     Hilltoppers Steelpan Academy - 8^th Place (tie)

     RBC Redemption Sound Setters Youth Academy - 8^th Place (tie)

     Heritage Petroleum Siparia Deltones Juniors Steel Orchestra- 8^th Place (tie)

     Fonclaire Juniors - 7^th Place

     Desperadoes Youth Steel Orchestra - 6^th Place

     First Citizens Supernovas Youth Steel Orchestra - 2^nd Place (tie)

     T&TEC Tropical Angel Harps Youth Steel Orchestra - 2^nd Place (tie)

     Trinidad All Stars Youth Steel Orchestra - 2^nd Place (tie)

     Shell Invaders Youth Steel Orchestra - 2^nd Place (tie)

     Bp Renegades Youth Steel Orchestra - 1^st Place

 

2.     Panorama 2025 Small Conventional Band Category

 

            Road Block Steel Orchestra - 14^th Place

     Panosonic Connection - 13^th Place

     St. Margaret’s Super Stars - 12^th Place

     Arima Golden Symphony - 11^th Place

     First Citizens Tobago Pan-Thers - 9^th Place (tie)

     Trinidad And Tobago Defence Force Steel Orchestra - 9^th Place (tie)

     Tokyo Steel Orchestra - 5^th Place (tie)

     Todd's Road Rhythem Raiders - 5^th Place (tie)

     Uptown Fascinators - 5^th Place (tie)

     Fascinators Pan Symphony - 5^th Place (tie)

     Fusion Steel - 4^th Place

     Southern Stars Steel Orchestra (D' south Band) - 3^rd Place

     Golden Hands - 1^st Place (tie)

     T&TEC New East Side Dimension - 1^st Place (tie)

 

3.     Panorama 2025: Medium Conventional Band Finals

 

             Curepe Scherzando Steel Orchestra -9^th Place (tie)

          Sforzata Steel Orchestra - 9^th Place (tie)

          Dixieland Steel Orchestra - 8^th Place

          Courts Sound Specialists of Laventille- 6^th Place (tie)

          Arima Angel Harps -6^th Place (tie)

          NGC La Brea Nightingales - 5^th Place

          Pamberi Steel Orchestra - 3^rd Place (tie)

                   NGC Couva Joylanders - 3^rd Place (tie)

          Pan Elders Steel Orchestra - 2^nd Place

          Katzenjammers Steel Orchestra - 1^st Place 

 

4.     Panorama 2025: Large Conventional Bands

 

     RBC Redemption Sound Setters Steel Orchestra - 9^th Place

     Shell Invaders Steel Orchestra - 9^th Place

     Massy Trinidad All Stars Steel Orchestra - 8^th Place

     T&TEC Tropical Angel Harps Steel Orchestra - 6^th Place

     Nutrien Silver Star Steel Orchestra - 6^th Place

     Phase II Pan Groove - 5^th Place

     First Citizens Supernovas Steel Orchestra - 4^th Place

     Heritage Petroleum Skiffle Steel Orchestra - 3^rd Place

     Bp Renegades Steel Orchestra - 2^nd Place

           Republic Bank Exodus - 1^st Place

 

1.      Eastern Region J’ouvert Monday Bomb Competition 

Non-Calypso: Single Pan Bands        

       Pan Stereonettes Steel Orchestra - 5^th Place

       Royal Stars Pan Symphony - 4^th Place

       East Phonics Steel Orchestra - 3rd Place

       Trinidad Nostalgic Steel Orchestra - 2^nd Place

       Arima All Stars Steel Orchestra - 1^st Place 

Conventional Bands

     Simple Song Steel Orchestra - 5^th Place

     Northolus Steel Orchestra - 4^th Place

     Arima Angel Harps Steel Orchestra - 3^rd Place

     Arima Golden Symphony Steel Orchestra - 2^nd Place

     Augmented Groove Steel Orchestra - 1^st Place

 

 

2.      King of the Road Calypso & Soca: Victoria Square, Port Spain

Single Pan Bands 

       Belmont Hi-Larks - 5^th Place

       D Veterans - 4^th Place

      Laventille Pashphonics - 3^rd Place

      StarDust - 2^nd Place

      Royal Stars Pan Symphony - 1^st Place

            Conventional Bands (King of the Road)

     Musical Gems – 6^th Place

     Desperadoes – 5^th Place

     Massy Trinidad All Stars – 4^th Place

     Proman Starlift – 3^rd Place

     Phase II Pan Groove – 2^nd Place

     Bp Renegades – 1^st Place

 

3.      The Neville Jules J’ouvert Bomb Competition

          Single Pan Bands

     Belmont Hi-Larks - 5^th Place

     D Veterans - 4^th Place

     Stardust - 3^rd Place

     Royal Stars Pan Symphony - 2^nd Place

     Laventille Pashphonics - 1^st Place

 

Conventional Bands

      Musical Gems – 6^th Place

      Massy Trinidad All Stars – 5^th Place

      Phase II Pan Groove – 4^th Place

      Desperadoes – 3^rd Place

      BP Renegades – 2^nd Place

      Proman Starlift – 1^st Place

 

This dual celebration reflected not only the skill and perseverance of Trinidad and Tobago’s steelpan musicians but also the revival and rejuvenation of traditional competitions under Pan Trinbago's leadership.

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A Night of Pride, Reflection, and Commitment

Pan Trinbago’s President Beverley Ramsey-Moore delivered an emotional and heartfelt address.
Speaking directly to Prime Minister Stuart Young, she acknowledged the lasting legacy of his father, Richard Young, a former Managing Director of Scotiabank and a true “pan jumbie” who, alongside former Vice President (Pan Trinbago) Keith Simpson, championed the cause of unsponsored Steelband’s by ensuring grants were provided annually.

"Your father was there for over 65 Steelband’s every year," Ramsey-Moore said. "He sowed the seeds so that today you could reap the benefits of the Steelband community by supporting you in the fight."

She emphasized Pan Trinbago’s deep appreciation for leaders who supported pan at the grassroots level:
"We pay attention to who stands with us and we have seen you. You are a leader concerned about the grassroots young people, and we will always remember that," she said.

President Ramsey-Moore also expressed profound gratitude to former Prime Minister Dr. Keith Rowley for his decisive contributions to the steelpan movement, including:

1. Reviving the National Steelband Music Festival after an eleven-year hiatus
2. Placing the Steelpan on Trinidad and Tobago’s National Coat of Arms
3. Achieving the formal declaration of the Steelpan as the National Instrument
4. Supporting the United Nations' declaration of World Steelpan Day on August 11

"Pan is more than the music, steelpan is a social force," she declared. "It impacts our lives, our communities, and therefore, we are extremely important to Trinidad and Tobago."

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A Government That Recognizes Pan

Minister of Tourism, Culture and the Arts Randall Mitchell highlighted the collaborative success between Pan Trinbago and the Government.
He celebrated the winners of the Festival and Panorama and emphasized the importance of good governance, accountability, and partnership.

"Tonight, we celebrate the victories of our Steelband’s, but also the remarkable transformation that hard work and accountability have brought to the steelpan movement," he said.

Minister Mitchell reminded the audience, "There is still a lot more we must accomplish," as he urged continuous investment in the creative industries to secure a thriving future for pan.

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The Prime Minister’s Vision for Pan’s Future

Delivering the feature address, Prime Minister Stuart Young passionately underscored the central role of steelpan in national identity.
"Steelpan is ours. We must claim it, we must own it, we must love it, we must market it, we must grow it," he urged.

He reflected on the difficult early days of the steelpan, born in struggle and initially denied formal recognition. Yet, today, he noted, steelpan stands as the only musical instrument created in the 20th century, globally recognized and proudly displayed on Trinidad and Tobago’s Coat of Arms.

He called on all citizens to take ownership of steelpan’s future:
"You are part of something that is extremely important to the DNA and the fabric of who we are as citizens of Trinidad and Tobago."

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Players' Remittance Distribution: Respecting Every Panist

Following the formal ceremony, Pan Trinbago commenced the critical task of distributing players' remittance cheques.

A total of TT$4.4 million was allocated for 5,551 registered players, ensuring that each player whether part of a Single Pan Band or Conventional Band — was fairly compensated.

Ramsey-Moore emphasized the deeper meaning behind the remittances:
"The remittance is more than a cheque, it is recognition. It is a promise fulfilled that says: we see you; we value you, and we honour your contribution to this national treasure."

With strict oversight and transparency mechanisms in place, Pan Trinbago reaffirmed its commitment to fairness, accountability, and player welfare.

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A Day to Remember, A Future to Build

April 15, 2025, marked more than a prize distribution, it marked a moment of national unity, cultural pride, and visionary leadership for the steelpan community.

As Pan Trinbago, Government officials, bands, and players celebrated the victories of the past year, the resounding message was clear:
The sound of the steelpan, born from struggle, forged in pride, will continue to rise, carrying the soul of Trinidad and Tobago to the world.

Special Thanks to all of Our Sponsors.

The Office of the Prime Minister

Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts, 

The National Carnival Commission, 

The Prime Ministers Sport and Cultural Fund

Steelpan Ambassadors- bpTT and the National Gas Company of Trinidad and Tobago 

The Tobago House of Assembly

The Heritage Petroleum Company Limited

Atlantic Lng

First Citizens

East Port of Spain Development Company Limited

TTT

The National Lotteries Control Board 

The Kenson Group of Companies

Bmobile

The National Petroleum Marketing Company 

Carib Brewery

Bmobile

The National Flour Mills

Caribbean Airlines

Campari (enjoy the bitter)

The InterAmerican Development Bank 

Labidco

Phoenix Park Gas Processors Limited

Angostura -White Oak

CGA

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.

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🌟 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!

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🏆 Final Results of Panorama 2025 – Large Band Finals 🏆

🥇 Republic Bank Exodus – Too Own Way – 288 Points
🥈 BP Renegades Steel Orchestra – Bet Meh – 285 Points
🥉 Heritage Petroleum Skiffle Steel Orchestra – Retro – 283 Points
4️  First Citizens Supernovas Steel Orchestra – Cocoa Tea – 282 Points
5️  Phase II Pan Groove – Pan and Soca – 281 Points
6️  Nutrien Silver Stars Steel Orchestra – Too Own Way – 280 Points
6️  T&TEC Tropical Angel Harps Steel Orchestra – Cocoa Tea – 280 Points
8️  Massy Trinidad All Stars Steel Orchestra – Bet Meh – 279 Points
9️  Shell Invaders Steel Orchestra – Blessing – 277 Points
9️  RBC Redemption Sound Setters Steel Orchestra – Flag Woman – 277 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!

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🎭 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.

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🎼 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.

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🥇 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!

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🥈 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.

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🥉 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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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🌴 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.

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🎉 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!

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🔥 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!

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

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