Pan Trinbago Inc. T.C. Tribute to the late Curtis Pierre

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Pan Trinbago Inc. T.C. Tribute to the late Curtis Pierre

Pan Trinbago, Inc. T.C., the World Governing Body for the Steelpan, its president, executive, staff and members of the entire steelpan fraternity, express our sincere condolences and deepest sympathies, to the family on the passing of the late Curtis Pierre.

Curtis Pierre served as a former Education Officer of Pan Trinbago.  He was instrumental in setting the foundation for music literacy in the steelband by opening a pan school, where he taught for six (6) years.  He also released 3 LP records on his musical works.

Pan Trinbago Inc. T.C. will always remember Curtis Pierre as a pioneer of the arts and culture of Trinidad and Tobago, and one who during his seventy (70) year involvement in the steelband, never missed an opportunity to be in the midst of his people celebrating with them their joys in every form of cultural expression.

Curtis Pierre served in many capacities during his involvement in the steelband, leader, musician, judge and educator.  He was a moving force in the “Pan in Church” movement, which is now widely accepted in many churches today.

It is generally accepted that the involvement of pioneers like Curtis, a St. Mary’s College graduate, helped to pave the way for the steelpan to be accepted in all strata of our society, and contributed to the Pan, today being known as the National Musical Instrument of Trinidad and Tobago.

In 1959 the Steelband Music Festival began to gain public acclaim and attention and was brought starkly into the limelight that year when Dixieland, led by Curtis Pierre, won the festival playing the tune “Agnus Dei”.

In recognition of the sterling contribution of this steelpan Pioneer, Pan Trinbago bestowed on Mr. Pierre “THE ANTHONY WILLIAMS AWARD” on Friday 28 November, 2008.  In addition, he was nominated by the organization on two (2) occasions – 2013 and 2015 for a National Award for his contribution to the development of the steelpan

Pan Trinbago pays tribute to this son of the soil and may his family find the strength to carry on.  Rest in Peace dear brother, knowing that you made your mark on the development of the steelband and movement in which you were so passionate about.

Beverley Ramsey-Moore (Mrs.)

President

PAN TRINBAGO INC. T.C.