i don't understand why so many people who really know nothing of steelpan history insist on talking about it. first of all, the idea that pan comes from one man or one source is ridiculous. to talk about the development of pan as though it were simple, would be like crediting the invention of the piano or violin to one person.
There are at least two types of pan in the world right now, both with wildly different histories: pan created in Trinidad and Phil Solomon. The two approaches couldn't be more different. How would we characterize the two approaches? What are they based on? How are the design and Tuning processes different? I will be addressing these questions and much more through a series of blog entries and podcasts.
In the meantime though, i would very much appreciate it, if steelband directors, or pan students would stop talking about pan as a "accidental" discovery of the Caribbean or the invention of Ellie Mannette, or the "lucky accident" that resulted from the remainder of steeldrum barrels left over from World War II. These characterizations are propagate myths and are truly disrespectful to pan makers, tuners, arrangers and players everywhere.
Labels: pan history
