Foundation Meets Future: Episode 2 STEELPAN ARRANGERS
On Saturday 26th September 2026 the Trinidad and Tobago Carnival Museum hosted a very special and meaningful event in its Foundation Meets Future Series - Steelpan Arrangers Episode.
A steelpan arranger is a musician who reworks a piece of music to be played specifically on the steelpan.
This was a meaningful conversation bringing together steelpan arrangers from three different generations to reflect on their journeys.
Dr. Leon “Smooth” Edwards — legendary arranger, educator and 0master musician whose career with Trinidad All Stars spans decades. Edwards has led the band to an extraordinary 10 National Panorama victories, from Woman on the Bass in 1980 to his tenth title with Inventor in 2024.
Michelle Huggins-Watts — educator, musician and arranger who made history in 2011 as the first female arranger to win a National Panorama title, leading Valley Harps to victory. Her extensive career in pan has included arranging, performing, adjudicating and educating both locally and internationally.
Representing a new generation is Jovanni Carnavon Gibson, a 19-year-old multi-instrumentalist and one of Trinidad and Tobago’s youngest steelpan arrangers, currently arranging for Bishop Anstey Trinity College East Steel in the 19 & Under category of the National Junior Panorama Competition.
The panel reflected on their individual journeys, the evolution of the arranger’s craft, and their vision for the future of the steelpan movement.
This very special event was moderated by the well-known cultural podcaster Corie Sheppard, who expertly guided the conversation as the panel explored their experiences as steelpan arrangers across generations—discussing what has changed, what has endured, and where this art form is headed next.
The audience appreciated every note of this insightful and engaging learning experience, celebrating not only the music, but the knowledge, history, and passion that continue to shape the future of our steelpan culture.
The event took place inside the Trinidad and Tobago Carnival Museum, located at the corners of Duke St. and Charlotte St. The event was open to the public at a cost of $100/ticket.
To reach a broader audience, both locally and internationally, we are sharing this meaningful conversation on our YouTube channel. If you missed this event you can click on the link below to watch Foundation to Future - episode 2.
This event was made possible by:
Our specially invited guests: Dr. Leon “Smooth” Edwards, Michelle Huggins-Watts & Jovanni Caravan Gibson
Our moderator: Mr. Cory Sheppard
Our sponsors: COURTS & JIMMY ABOUD The Textile King
Our TTCM staff & volunteers
Thank you to all of you, for your continuous support for the Trinidad and Tobago Carnival Museum.
TTCM
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