BASSETERRE, St. Kitts — The EBJ Harmonics steel orchestra has cemented its dominance in the national music scene by securing an unprecedented sixth consecutive championship title during Sunday night’s Panorama competition. The group amassed 424 points to claim the $30,000 top prize in what officials are calling the best-attended event of the current carnival season.
The competition, held on December 28 at Warner Park, featured four bands composed primarily of young performers, including numerous teenagers, signaling a promising future for the traditional artform. Nevis Development Steel Orchestra placed second with 381 points, earning $20,000 in prize money.
Minister of the Creative Economy Samal Duggins expressed overwhelming optimism about steel pan’s vitality in the Federation, noting that ticket sales had to be halted due to unprecedented public interest. “When you look at tonight, they had to stop selling tickets. That tells you something,” Duggins told SKNVibes. “The makeup of these teams—teenagers, young people, and even more mature players—tells you there is longevity.”
Anthonio Liburd, Chair of the Steel Pan Subcommittee, praised all competing bands for bringing their “A-game” to the performance. The event drew large crowds, including a significant contingent from Nevis, with organizers implementing emergency ticket measures to accommodate the overwhelming demand.
Minister Duggins dismissed suggestions that steel pan is declining in popularity, noting that while fewer bands competed this year due to the absence of additional Nevis teams, participation within bands has actually increased. The minister characterized the massive turnout as a victory in itself, stating: “Another year, steel pan has delivered the highest attendance at Warner Park, and for me, that is a win.”
The carnival season continues with the Miss Haynes Smith Pageant scheduled for the St. Kitts Marriott Resort.