Enthusiasm, energy and eclectic sounds were the order of the evening on October 24, at The Music Hall in Toronto. This inaugural performance featured three of the finest steelpan soloists. The international cast show cased the talents and skills of gifted steelpan musicians: Rudy Smith, Ken "Professor" Philmore and Andy Narell. The show was attended by representatives from the jazz and steelpan community from leaders to players as well as jazz enthusiasts.

The performances from the musicians were exciting and electrifying. Ken "Professor" Philmore's performance was one of high-energy and laden with rhythm, engaging the audience throughout the performance. It was a set that was reverberating with "soul" and provided an urban environment for his repertoire. Rudy Smith, a straight- ahead jazz musician was inspiring. He touched us with his smooth and soothing renditions of jazz favourites. His instruments were really gems and some participants suggested the sounds were similar to that of an organ. Andy Narell demonstrated that the instrument is versatile moving from Latin to contemporary American jazz selections. Narell provided us with a good cross section of his earlier compositions along with some of his more recent releases.

The backup musicians for Smith : Kieran Overs, Bernie Senensky, and Anthony Michelli are highly respected and came through like a beacon.

Grenadian born Kingsley Ettienne and his quartet: Doug Richardson (saxophone), Rich Brown (bass guitar) and Comio Okee (drums) were examples of good backup musicians.

The concert demonstrated that there is a wealth of creative energy among steelpan soloists. The distinct styles of music: straight ahead jazz, urban and Latin and contemporary genres blend well musically in a live concert format. The overwhelmingly positive response to this Jazzance event sets the stage for more of the same next year.

Trincan Music would like to congratulate the musicians for the outstanding performances, and other individuals who worked so diligently to make the show a tremendous success.