Acknowledging that the steelpan promotes inclusive societies, sustainable communities and the creative economy and can have a positive impact on mental health and well-being, gender equality and youth empowerment, the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed August 11 as World Steelpan Day.
Originating from Trinidad and Tobago in the Caribbean, during the 20th Century, the Assembly invited stakeholders to observe World Steelpan Day, through activities aimed at raising awareness of the cultural and historical significance of the steelpan as well as its link to sustainable development. A draft resolution received co-sponsorship from 84 member states of the General Assembly to celebrate the musical instrument which originated in T&T in the early 1930s and is the only new instrument invented in the 20th century.
A release from the Trinidad and Tobago Office of the Prime Minister—Communications explained that the draft resolution was adopted and will be annually observed on the UN’s Calendar. It said Minister of Tourism, Culture and the Arts Randall Mitchell delivered a statement at the 77th General Assembly sitting in New York, introducing the resolution.
Made from industrial drums used for carrying oil, steel pans are a type of tuned percussion instrument, which means they can play different pitches. World Steelpan Day comes when Steelpan Month is observed annually by Pan Trinbago and the national community.
Recently, Pan Trinbago posted a live video on its Facebook page with celebrations taking place at the Desperadoes Pan Theatre, in the Port-of-Spain, to mark the major milestone, with steelpan music featuring heavily as part of the festivities.
