UK NATIONAL STEELBAND PANORAMA 2023 ROUNDUP – REAL STEEL ORCHESTRA

Aug 6

Aug 6 UK NATIONAL STEELBAND PANORAMA 2023 ROUNDUP – REAL STEEL ORCHESTRA

Over thirty years ago, a sum of £1,500 was utilised to procure five steel pans and enlist the professional guidance of Toussaint Clarke, a prominent figure and world class tuner associated with Bath-based Rainbow Steel Orchestra. Recognising the enthusiasm of both the school and community members, the Estover Percussion Project stepped forward to provide the necessary financial support for their aspirations.

Consequently, eight members from Estover Community College united their talents to establish the Estover Steel Band. Through unwavering commitment and relentless effort, this all-girl steel ensemble has since blossomed into the highly acclaimed Real Steel, which holds its base of operations in Plymouth. The band's remarkable journey has been led by the gifted arranger, Leroy Clarke.

Real Steel has established remarkable connections with steel bands worldwide, including Contrast Steel Band in Leicester and Calypsonic in Germany, all of whom come together to collaborate for the Notting Hill Carnival. These partnerships showcase Real Steel's commitment to fostering a global community of steel pan enthusiasts, promoting cultural exchange. By teaming up with diverse steel bands from different countries, Real Steel enriches their performances and contributes to the growth and diversity of the steel pan music on an international scale.

Real Steel’s excellence in performance was recognised when they were crowned Panorama Champions in 2012, 2013, and 2014, an unprecedented feat for being the only band located outside of London to win. Securing a historic hat trick, they have become the second band to have ever achieved this.

After a hiatus since 2016, Real Steel is now ready to grace the competition stage once more, putting seven years of anticipation to rest as they return with a fervent determination to reclaim the trophy.

In addition to their captivating presence at Notting Hill Carnival, Real Steel has left an indelible mark on various esteemed events, including appearances on BBC One, Radio 2, Radio 4, and Heart Radio. They have also contributed their melodious artistry to prominent UK events like Brighton Pride, BBC Proms, and the Jubilee.

Real Steel operates as a fully self-funded enterprise, relying solely on performance fees and brand sponsorships for financial sustenance, with the dedicated players offering their talents and skills on a voluntary basis.

Contact Real Steel: e-mail: real_steel@hotmail.co.uk

Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/realsteelband/

Their Panorama band will be made up of seventy five players.

Manager: Leroy Clarke

Arranger: Leroy Clarke

Captain: Joe Friend

Tuner: Toussaint Clarke

Tune of Choice: Long Live Soca by Voice

Players: 80

There are seven steelbands vying for the title this year, Ebony – the reigning champions, Mangrove, Metronomes, CSO, Pan Nation, Real Steel and Southside Harmonics.