Discrimination against the steelpan

The aforementioned is not however the main reason for this note. Fact is that there were distinct and significant differences between the two steelpan ensembles which competed for The Fitzgerald Jemmot Memorial Trophy. The differences were in the degree of difficulty of the chosen pieces, the voicing and quality of the instruments, and the execution of the pieces. It turned out however that, in my non-musically trained mind, the superior ensemble in this competition was placed second.

One could not help but observe the strong “convincing” representation by Mr Jessel to Professor Trinkley (USA). At no other time during the evening was that necessary while Dr Lewin and Professor Trinkley judged the non-steelband categories.

I imagine it would have been unreasonable and politically incorrect for Professor Trinkley to not follow the “guidance” of this local expert in steelpan music who was included specifically for this category. Is this the spirit of The Music Festival? I may not have written this note had I not been informed during the intermission, which was well before the steelpan segment, that similar incidents took place on Saturday for The Signature Collection Trophy and The Da Silva Cup. These comments came from individuals with longstanding steelpan backgrounds.

Nothing is wrong with having a local judge but why discriminate against the pan? Why was our national instrument not afforded the same international adjudicators?

The integrity of the process must always take precedence.