Pantonic Steel Orchestra - The Legacy Lives On!
Pantonic Steel Orchestra was founded in 1988 in Hackney, London, by Ezekiel ‘Biggs’ Yearwood, who built and tuned the steelpans, and Raymond Joseph, who arranged for the band. Their shared vision was to create a musical family rooted in culture and community. Sadly, Raymond passed away in 1992, but the band grew from strength to strength. As part of the Windrush generation, Biggs’ craftsmanship laid the foundation for a legacy spanning generations. His contribution is recognised on the world’s largest blue plaque at Westbourne Park Underground Station.
Pantonic at Pan Nation’s Blockorama 2026.
During the 1990s, Pantonic rose to prominence, placing 2nd in National Panorama in 1994 and 1995, and touring France to showcase Caribbean steelpan culture. After 1998, Pantonic shifted its focus toward community development, music education, and youth involvement, becoming a regular feature at Hackney Carnival, winning 1st Place for Best Music multiple times throughout the 2010s.
Pantonic at Pan Nation’s 2026 Blockorama!
In 2011, a new generation emerged, featuring Biggs’ great-grandchildren, family, and new community members. The band remained active in the creative arts scene, appearing on Come Dine With Me and Apple Tree House, and performing live with James Arthur at V Festival 2017. In 2019, Pantonic entered the Steelpan Trust’s Pan Clash competition to nurture young talent.
Panasonic entertaining at a community event
The pandemic brought challenges, but Pantonic kept the spirit alive through online content. As restrictions lifted, they returned to their panyard to rebuild and rehearse. After more than two decades, Pantonic returned to Notting Hill Carnival in 2024, achieving 2nd Place for Best Steelband on the Road alongside 1st Place for Best Music at Hackney Carnival. This momentum culminated on Carnival Sunday in 2026, when Pantonic won 1st Place for Best Steelband on the Road during Notting Hill Carnival’s historic 60th anniversary.
Pantonic at Notting Hill Carnival
The next generation continues to make its mark. In the 2025 Pan Clash competition, Ciaran Simpson became the Under-16s champion, while Skye Yearwood achieved 4th Place. The band also performed at the Southbank Centre as part of “Steel Scenes,” celebrating 75 years of steelpan in the UK. Today, the band is led by Biggs’ granddaughter, Lynette, with support from his daughter Helen, son Grafton, and across four generations of the Yearwood family, alongside original and newer members. Pantonic proudly embraces diversity in its membership and wide repertoire, including calypso, soca, reggae, jazz, classical, and pop.
Ciaran Simpson winning the Pan Clash Under 16s
Help Them Find a Permanent Panyard!
Today, Pantonic needs your support more than ever. After 14 years of serving their community from St Thomas’ Church, Hackney they must relocate from their rehearsal space. They are taking steps to protect Pantonic’s future, but they cannot do it alone. For nearly 40 years, they have inspired generations of young people and celebrated Caribbean heritage. Please stand with them by signing, sharing, and supporting our campaign to secure a long-term home.
Skye Yearwood, Biggs Grand Daughter.
Panpodium recognizes the efforts and contributions that the Pantonic family has made to promote steelpan culture both in the UK and abroad. May they continue their musical and cultural journey for many years to come. Join their campaign: sites.google.com/view/help-pantonic-find-a-panyard
Pan Tonic’s Logo
