WHEN: Saturdays, September 11, 18, 25, October 2, 16, 1-3 pm
WHERE: Walker Court, Art Gallery of Ontario
Join musicians Earl La Pierre Jr. and Suzette Vidale for live steel pan performances in Walker Court. Originating from Trinidad and Tobago in the early 20th century, these hammered, shiny metal pans are an icon of musical energy found in the streets, festivals and now cultural and educational institutions.
Earl La Pierre Jr., known as ESP (Extraordinary Steel Pannist), came onto the scene in 1987, when he started playing with Afropan Steel Orchestra. Four years later, he started playing as a soloist, and he’s now one of Toronto’s premiere steel pannists. Earl is currently manager of Canada’s #1 steelband, Afropan Steelband, and a founding member of Pan Arts Network (PAN), dedicated to showcasing the steel pan artform on larger concert stages. He’s played at major events like Caribana, Snowflakes on Steel, Autumn Leaves on Steel, du Maurier Jazz Festival and Pan Jazz, and he has played with world-renowned pannists such as Len “Boogsie” Sharpe, Ray Holman and his father, Earl La Pierre Sr.
Suzette Vidale is an innovative steelpan artist. With roots in 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 many people to this instrument, its history, and its unique sound through educational workshops and performances. Her love of working with children lets her merge craft with education, and teach with a focus on cooperation and team building through the steelpan. Wholeheartedly passionate about her pride in the steelpan, Suzette shares her craft with people from all walks of life and welcomes everyone to join her on her journey of "educating, entertaining and inspiring."
