Russell Roberts - Where Words Fail Music Speaks

Dec 30

Dec 30 Russell Roberts - Where Words Fail Music Speaks

Russell is a multi-instrumentalist, tutor and musical arranger. His passion for music has seen him not only learn to play the steelpan but also several other instruments over the years, these include clarinet, piano, drums and bass guitar to name a few. His versatility and musical talent has seen him perform and arrange for various musical groups over the years.

Russell started learning to play the steelpan at age six and has travelled on his musical journey ever since. He joined Mangrove Steelband at age eight and performed with them for the UK National Steelband Panorama the very same year and continued to play and eventually arrange for their stage side over the next thirty years,

Russell with Delphina and Alicia judging BAS Junior Panorama.

Russell has been teaching for around twenty years in various schools, bands and community groups with ages ranging between six and eighty- one. From his amazing musical journey he has developed his style and choice of tunes from a wide range of genres.

Russell has also judged steelband competitions and a notable one was the British Association of Steelbands (BAS)’s 2019 Junior Panorama competition alongside Delphina ‘Panness’ James and Shareen Gray from Steelpan Trust.

Chris Storey BEM, Manager of Pan Nation presenting Russell with his Appreciation Award!

The Captain of Mangrove Steel Band, Andrew Facey, stated in his Panpodium interview that he has never seen a player roll on a note as good as Russell Roberts. Russell is such an amazing musician and a very humble and quiet person whose natural talent will ensure that his musical journey is one that will etched into history. Russell believes that the true beauty of music is that it connects people. According to Mozart, ‘Melody is the essence of Music and Russell has certainly showed that in his musical compositions. Russell was honoured by Pan Nation Steel Orchestra at their 2024 Winter Concert for his invaluable contribution to the band and culture. Panpodium salutes this amazing individual and his valuable contribution to the Steelpan culture in the UK and abroad.