Biography
Suzette Vidale is an innovative steelpan artist.
With roots from St. Lucia and Trinidad, the home of the steelpan, Suzette has incorporated the rich and vibrant cultures of Toronto into her diverse repertoire.
As an ambassador of steelpan, she has introduced this instrument, its history, and its unique sound to local schools, corporations, and attendees of countless diverse events.
Performance highlights include the Viola Desmond Awards, the Lincoln Alexander Awards, the Queen's Platinum Jubilee, the Lieutenant Govenor's New Year's Levee, and most recently the Art Gallery of Ontario.
Her love of working with the community has allowed her to merge her craft with education and teach with a focus on cooperation and team building through the use of the steelpan.
These amazing institutions and organizations include University of Toronto, Toronto Metropolitan University, Humber College, Ontario Science Centre, St. Lucian Association of Toronto and Calgary, Emancipation Month International, Jamii, Sistering, Mabelle Arts and many more.
“Aside from seeing the steel pan being incorporated into educational institutions at all levels, my most favourite shift is the inclusion of the instrument as a wellness tool. I have had some of the greatest moments connecting with our city’s most vulnerable citizens. I am always learning from others while doing steel pan workshops for the homeless, at-risk youth as well as marginalized women who have experienced trauma.”
Wholeheartedly passionate about her pride in the steelpan, Suzette will continue sharing her craft with people from all walks of life and welcomes all to join her on the journey of "educating, entertaining and inspiring".
HIGHLIGHTS
2014: Arts Network's BMO Seed Fund Award
2017: Pan Arts Newwork’s Woman In Pan Award
2020: ByBlack People’s Choice Award: Best Black Canadian Musician of the Year
2022: 100 Accomplished Black Canadian Women Award
