From 1995 to the present, the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force Steel Orchestra has graced the National Panorama stage with their commanding energy, flair, and creativity.
This has earned them Panorama wins, a loyal following, and a reputation for excellence.
Heading into the 2025 National Small Band Preliminaries with their interpretation of ‘Swing’ by Super Blue (then Boy), the band’s commitment to excellence continues.
Former Chief of Defence Staff, Retired Brigadier General Carl Alfonso, was responsible for the current form of the Defence Force Steel Orchestra.
“What happened, we took most of our soldiers and sailors at the time. There were no air guard played for different bands when Panorama came. Came along, so we would allow our soldiers and sailors to go to Despers, Renegades, All Stars, any band, Fonclair and so on. And I thought it might be a good thing to pull all those into one band. One Steel Orchestra. Stay with your small band. Sorry, stay with your big band. Stay with your big band, your Despers, and All Stars and so on. But come and form one small thing here.”
He hopes that members of the Defence Force will always have the opportunity to compete on the national instrument.
“I’m happy to see them continue. I want to thank Air Vice-Marshal Darryl Daniel, who is the Present, Chief of Defence Staff. And of course he’s the one who would allow the Steel Orchestra to continue. When he leaves, whenever he leaves, I hope the next person who comes in understands that. We want to continue this as far as possible. Into the next century.”
Musician and steel pan lover Janice Gooding journeyed from La Brea to Chaguaramas to follow the music. She gave her amateur assessment of the performance.
“The audience was perfect. The weather was fine, and definitely the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force Steel Orchestra did their best as per usual. They did a great job. They sounded lovely, and I enjoyed it. I’m looking forward to them doing their best. I mean, their best is what we would experience here at the events and events for the Panorama 2025. I do hope that they do their best, and whatever their best is, we’ll accept it and enjoy their pan.”
The National Small Pan Band Preliminaries continue with bands in the Eastern, South Central, and Tobago regions. The Small Band Semi-Finals is scheduled for January 18th at Victoria Square, Port of Spain, while the Finals are scheduled for January 25th at Skinner Park, San Fernando.