In an effort to educate individuals on the art of steelpan making, the Tina Insanally Foundation yesterday officially opened the Chapman Steelpan Workshop.
Ivan Chapman, who is the owner of the premises where the workshop is being held, will be working along with Aubrey Bryan the co-ordinator of the workshop in the training of the making of the steelpans.
Bryan mentioned that the workshop aims to pass on the knowledge of pan making to youngsters and adults. “We hope what we’re doing for you is going to be beneficial in the future,” Bryan told the workshop participants.
He further stated that within the week individuals would be taught in various areas which include the selection, marking, heating and cutting of the drums which are used for steelpan playing.
Jonelle Dummett a representative of Republic Bank which is the main sponsor of the event stated that the organisation wishes to help popularise steelpan in Guyana.
She said that after the workshop has been completed she hopes that the individuals would have a liking and stronger appreciation for steelpan.
The workshop, which will be held over the course of one week, began yesterday with representatives from Berbice, Plaisance and the Ruimveldt Children Centre in attendance.
Charwin Burnham, who is also part of the initiative, told Stabroek News that one of the key issues is that steelbands aren’t shown as much recognition in Guyana.
He stated that in countries like Trinidad and Tobago, private and public entities show immense interest.
He said that steelpan competitions held in Trinidad and Tobago usually have ten to 20 sponsors from both public and private entities. Burnham added that a Ministry of Culture representative was scheduled to be at yesterday’s event but did not attend.
