Please join us for a free performance by Steel Sensation at Landmark on Main Street on October 17 at 3 pm. This performance is part of World Music Sundays, made possible via a partnership between Long Island Traditions and Landmark on Main Street, with funding by a grant from the New York State Council on the Arts.
Steel Sensation was founded by Trinidadian born Ian Japsi. Ian learned to play from family members, including his uncle, the legendary Jit Samaroo. Trinidad is a small Caribbean island that has had a big effect on music through its contributions of calypso and the steel band. The steel band is composed of a variety of steel drums or pans with different tunings. The instrument holds the distinction of being the only acoustic instrument invented in the 20th century. Trinidadian steel bands began in the late 1930s, when musicians turned garbage cans and oil barrels into drums or pans. Over time the distinctive sound and rhythm grew popular during pre-Lent Carnivals, similar to those of Mardi Gras.
Since its creation in 1996 the members of Steel Sensation, all being of Caribbean descent made a vow to bring steel band and its entirety to the people of the United States. Since then, the band has made great strides in music and teaching and has placed themselves among the elite steel bands known today.
Program is free, proof of covid vaccination is required for entry. For more information, click here.