Time To Move On

The modern steelpan was invented during the Second World War growing out of the Iron Bands of the thirties – the drumming on garbage cans, old car parts and empty oil barrels. It was further developed 1945-1960 with many new inventions in tuning, materials and the making of different types of pan instruments going from Soprano to Six Bass. It was just a matter of time before the first jazzpan soloist would emerge. The pioneer is the legendary virtuoso Rudy “Two Left” Smith, who transformed the pans into a jazz instrument. He was born 1943 in Port of Spain in the center of the Pan District and grew up during the innovative years when the modern pan was born. His early inspiration was vibist Milt Jackson. Later on John Coltrane made a lasting impression along with the music of J.S. Bach!