Soul of TT music in pan

Technological advances have proven effects of reversing characteristics of human activities. Therefore, we Trinis, and indeed other Caribbean nationals, need to pay significant attention to how original pan was shaped and progressed to avoid its becoming obsolete and unwanted. Does it have to be submerged or displaced in current technological advancements in which it can lose its true face? Piano, an Italian invention of 1709, is subject to new technologies, yet traditional piano remains in demand. Which symphony orchestra would contain a digital piano or synthesizer? Let’s say, not yet.

We have to insist that Tom, Dick and Mary do not engage in any course which subjugates pan, no matter how excellent technology may be, to reconstruct its rank as second, third or “nowherian” class.

We have to make prominent pan’s history, its purpose, its life as an outstanding innovation in TT . Its birth is still tangible to many.

Pan carries the soul of TT music and illustrates how a positive can emerge from oppression, to establish the ingenuity of those who did not resist with war, but with music, sound and community.

YVONNE BOBB-SMITH Port-of-Spain