Condolences

The steelpan movement is mourning the loss of three (3) of its staunchest supporters.

Over the past couple of days, Mrs. Diane Marshall-Holdip, Mr. Gerald Forsyth and Mr. Michael John, passed away.

The Organization fondly remembers the trio as persons who loved the steelband, its music and contributed to its development in each of their respective ways.

Mrs. Holdip was described as true lover of the artform, enjoying the music and was most present at many of events celebrating the steelpan in particular that of Massy Trinidad All Stars.

Born in Trinidad, Mr Gerald Forsyth, 93, migrated to the United Kingdom, taking with him his love for the steelband and its music.  Forsyth is credited as the establishing the first school steelband in the United Kingdom in 1969 and is responsible for the steelpan being part of the curriculum in hundreds of schools across London. After forty (40) plus years, the musical icon, steelpan maker and tuner was given the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for his contribution.

Mr. Michael John aka “Smiling” was a long-standing member of the Renegades Steel Orchestra who is said “to know every piece of music he played with the band” as well as one who could play any instrument in the band.  He was tuner of renown.

The President and members of Pan Trinbago Inc. T.C. extend deepest condolences to the families of the above and by extension their pan family on their passing. They will be sadly missed.