In an exhilarating final, the Tobago Junior Panorama Championship 2015 came off without a hitch, as seven bands vied for the coveted title. The Competition took place in the Eastern Car Park of the Shaw Park Complex, on Tuesday 10th February 2015.
On hand to witness the camaraderie expressed by the young Pan Players, was Councillor Dr. Denise Tsoiafatt-Angus, Secretary of Community Development and Culture. In her remarks, Dr. Angus recognized Mr. Horace Arnold – Vice Chairman of Pan Trinbago, Mr. Winston Gordon – Chairman of the Tobago Carnival Committee 2015, teachers, students, parents and supporters.
The Secretary congratulated those who qualified and represented Tobago on the National Stage, in the Pan Fraternity, for the Carnival Season. “All participants need to be admired for the work that has been put in over the past weeks, leading up to the Junior Champs. It must not have been easy and it truly demonstrates your dedication and love for the art form, because it takes a lot of discipline to do what you are doing night after night. ”
Tsoiafatt-Angus applauded their efforts, as she noted that some could have dropped out and wished all competitors the best of luck, as in her view they are all winners. She said she is heartened by the fact that a number of the Arrangers being named are young artistes on the Island, who have expanded into the area of Arranging and she congratulated these young people for their courage, willingness and recognition that there is more to the Pan, apart from playing, such as Managing and Arranging. Players were reminded, nevertheless, that what is important, is that while competing, they should enjoy themselves.
Vice-Chairman of Pan Trinbago, Horace Arnold, commended the Secretary for her hard work, noting that she is always around, ensuring that Pan goes in the right direction. Arnold also complimented the School steel bands and their Arrangers, revealing that the Executive is considering the establishment of a school for young Arrangers. Congratulating “the hard working Executive of Pan Trinbago,” Arnold also singled out Mr. Winston Gordon – Chairman of the Tobago Carnival Committee 2015 for making the event possible.
Judges included, Ms Cheryl Duncan, Mr. Ricky Williams and Mr. Roger Sardina. Performing in position number one was Roxborough Police Youth Club. They were followed by Plymouth Anglican School, which gave way to Signal Hill Secondary and Uptown Fascinators. The last three spots were held in succession by Goodwood High School, Speyside High School and Parlatuvier Anglican Primary.
When the smoke cleared from the beautiful renditions, Signal Hill Secondary School emerged victorious, totaling 267 points, with their rendition of ‘Ah Going and Party Tonight,’ by Lord Nelson, Arranged by Mr Delbert Henry. Second Position went to Good Wood High School, which garnered 264 Points and played ‘Gold,’ sung by Machel Montano and others. In 3rd Position was last year’s winner Speyside High School playing, ‘Party Time Again’ by Bally, gaining 263 Points. Plymouth Anglican Primary placed 4th, with their rendition of ‘Ola’ by Olatunji. The final three spots were filled by Parlatuvier, Uptown Fascinators and Roxborough Police Youth Club respectively.
Sentiments expressed by the Manager of Signal Hill Secondary, Mr. Allister Adams, were that of satisfaction, shared by the children, who having worked hard and practiced hard, were rewarded. He said the team came out to have fun, stressing that “this is what should be encouraged among the youths.”
A most exciting and successful Junior Panorama Championship 2015, enjoyed by all.