The air at the Sab was electric on Sunday night as steelpan music echoed through the grounds, drawing one of the largest and most diverse crowds to the Republic Bank Panorama Competition.
Pantime Steel Orchestra claimed first place, dazzling the judges and audience with their arrangement of Damn Proud Lucian by Sly. Their commanding delivery earned them the top prize of $60 000 and the title of Panorama Champions.
Courts Babonneau Steel Orchestra secured second place with their vibrant rendition of Run Juju Run by Ready, walking away with $50 000. Pantastic Muzik Orchestra came in third, delivering a spirited performance of Ninja in St Lucia by Translator to earn $40 000, while Laborie Steel Pan rounded out the top four with Just Your Turn by Ricky T, winning $35 000.
It wasn’t just about the big bands, as soloists also brought their A-game. Jesse Nurse took first place in the solo category with a brilliant performance of Lottery by Arthur Allain, earning $2 500.
Omar Gabriel followed closely in second with Doo Doo Darling by Teddyson John for $2 000 and Kannis Desrivieres, performing under the name Sno, also chose Doo Doo Darling and claimed third place and $1 500.
Judged on musical arrangement, clarity, energy and overall presentation, Panorama once again proved that Saint Lucia’s steelpan tradition is alive.
