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BAS/CAPCA Junior Panorama Competition 2K7
This year’s competition saw four steel bands competing for the title of ‘2007 Junior Panorama Champions’. The event, held on 13 August 2007 in Kensington Memorial Park, St Marks Road, London W10, was hosted by the British Association of Steelband in partnership with the Children and Parents Carnival Association under the stewardship and guidance of Lee Woolford Chivers. Judges were World Soloist Champion Brent Holder, seven times Junior Panorama winning arranger Debby Romain and Miles Pascall, Vice Chair of BAS’ Future Development Forum.
The overcast day filled with sporadic showers did not dampen the spirits of the young pannists. The audience was treated to an explosion of sweet steel band music played by enthusiastic pan musicians. In first place was Croydon Steel Orchestra led by Musical Director Paul Dowie. Their rendition of Destra Garcia’s, ‘I Dare You’ saw them capture the title by the narrowest of margins.
Defending Champions, Eclipse 2000, led by Mark ‘Tyson’ Williams played Amrit Samaroo’s, ‘Band from Space’. Eclipse’s outstanding bass and harmonious verses were certainly a treat for the audience and the judges who awarded them 46 points – one point shy of the winning band.
In third place was Comets with 44 points playing Jason Butcher’s musical rendition of Lord Kitchener’s, ‘Symphony on the Street’. Their solid arrangements accompanied by good rhythm and bags of enthusiasm will prove to be an asset in future competitions. Pan Ultimate led by Daniel Louis captured fourth place with 36 points. Their performance of ‘Carnival Come Again’ arranged by Daniel Louis was the perfect platform from which the musicians showcased their much improved playing skills.
There is a great sense of togetherness in Croydon. In receiving their trophy the band gave Paul three cheers, showing their respect and admiration for their arranger. In looking back on the day Paul is deservedly proud of the achievements of the players and is already planning for next year’s competition.
by Debi Gardner
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