I performed on my steelpan, an instrument whose warm, resonant sound naturally draws people in. In an airport setting—where movement, anticipation, and emotion are always present—the steelpan felt especially fitting. Its Caribbean roots and uplifting tone offered a sense of calm and joy within the lively atmosphere of the arrivals area.
In addition to performing, I wanted the experience to be interactive. I brought two additional steelpans and invited audience members to try them out. Many people had never seen a steelpan up close before, let alone played one. Watching curiosity turn into excitement as people tentatively picked up mallets and then confidently struck their first notes was incredibly rewarding.
Surrounded by reunions, first moments back in the city, and the quiet anticipation of waiting, the music became part of the arrivals experience itself. Steelpan melodies accompanied hugs, smiles, and conversations, adding warmth and colour to an already emotional space.
To make it accessible for everyone, I taught participants a quick and easy song. Within minutes, travelers of all ages were making music together—smiling, laughing, and surprising themselves with how quickly they could play.
What stood out most was how naturally music broke down barriers. No tickets, no stage separation—just sound, people, and connection. This is exactly what Music on the Fly represents: bringing live music into everyday spaces and reminding us that art doesn’t have to be formal or distant to be meaningful.
I’m deeply grateful to ArtHaus Community, the City of Toronto’s Music Office, and Nieuport Aviation for supporting initiatives like this and for inviting artists to engage audiences in such a hands-on, human way. Performing at YTZ wasn’t just about playing music—it was about creating a shared experience that travelers could carry with them long after their flight.
If even a few people left the airport with a new appreciation for steelpan, live music, or their own ability to make music, then the performance was a success.
Photos by @fisayoadelusi and @mediapass.to
