The Metronomes Steel Orchestra (MSO) was formed in 1973 by Phil Dubique and Irvin Corridan. This family based steel band is an established UK steel pan icon and has effectively contributed to this wonderful art form for more than thirty years.

MSO is currently managed by Eversley ‘Breeze’ Mills - vice chairman of BAS. He has injected a new vibrancy into the band which comprises of men and women, young and old whose talent and dedication to developing their own individual skills is outstanding. These players are constantly extending their expertise and developing an in-depth knowledge of the evolution of this musical instrument called the steel pan.

MSO is committed to the principle that all people have the right to equal treatment.  The orchestra is therefore opposed to all forms of discrimination and will insure that no member or visitor will be treated less favourably than another on the grounds of their race, colour, ethnic or national origin, gender, disability, age, or sexual orientation. MSO is also opposed to discrimination because of an individual’s religious, cultural or political belief, except where those beliefs would make it impossible for that person to comply with any part of the Equal Opportunities Policy. The orchestra has two main principles, to promote the steel pan art form and Carnival culture in the UK and to play a positive role within the community and to encourage musical development and self-confidence for all.

They have had several major achievements, e.g. appearance in ‘Songs of Praise’, winners at the UK Steel Band Music Festival in 1976, the opening of the Channel Tunnel, BAS Pan Explosion winners in 2000 and 2001; UK National Panorama winners four times and five times as runners up. They have also won the Notting Hill “On the Road Competition” twice. They have completed many worldwide tours and in September 2005 performed in Leipzig, Germany on an invitation from the T&T High Commission. They are guaranteed to set any stage alight with their vibrancy and versatility. The orchestra generates that genuine Carnival atmosphere from the instant it arrives on the scene.

Metronomes repertoire experiments with a number of genres in music, be it jazz, classical, soul, reggae, calypso etc.  This ensures a greater versatility and something that is not new to the band, increased opportunity.  MSO have established their place at the forefront of UK steel orchestral music and plays an active role in the British Association of Steelbands. Contact  them on metronomes@panpodium.com