This post first appeared on Kaiso Dial, where Caribbean music meets wit, rhythm, and real talk. Island Vybe Radio spins the tunes—we decode the culture.
The sweet sounds of steelband music filled the air as Trinidad's Panorama competitions unfolded. The Small Conventional steelband semifinals took place yesterday at Victoria Square, Port of Spain. The entire show was streamed via Pan Trinbago’s Pay‑Per‑View platform for US $25. Pay-per-view customers complained about camera angles but more importantly, poor audio quality. The quality issue was not the case for those who attended and enjoyed the captivating performances.
Clearly, the competition was fierce, with quality musical arrangements separated by the tonal quality of the pans. Some may disagree with that statement, but every biased supporter has a "bush judge" sense of judgment when it comes to our national instrument. The score sheet reflected the closeness of the competition. Just two points separated the top four bands, underscoring the quality and competitiveness of this year’s field.
Top Performers
- Southern Stars Steel Orchestra—Let's Build A Nation Together by Merchant, arranged by Duvon Stewart
- Uptown Fascinators—Band From Space by Crazy, arranged by Ojay Richards
- Golden Hands—All Aboard by Atlantik with lead vocals by Tony Prescott, arranged by Vanessa Headley-Brewster
- T& TEC New East Side Dimensions—Water De Garden
- Fascinators Steel Orchestra—Both of Dem
- Tunapuna Tipica—Hot Hot Hot
Indeed, it was a tight race with more surprises in store for the finals, high musical standards, and a lineup that promises to deliver real excitement. Everyone will be out to clip Duvone Stewart and his Southern Stars Steel Orchestra that rose to the top at the Semis. Get ready for a finals that promises all the drama we love for steelband panorama finals performances.
Production Notes/Music Credits:
Competition: Small Bands Panorama Semi-Finals Carnival 2026
Venue: Victoria Square, Port of Spain
Date/Time: Saturday, 20th December, 2025/4:00 PM
Origin: Trinidad, Republic of Trinidad & Tobago.
Genre: Steelband music. ?
Code: SCBPS2026
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