The Graduates evolved from Arima All Stars Steelband. Under my leadership, that band won the National Panorama title for single-pan bands from 1998 to 2000. Having played at the 1999 Miss Universe competition in Trinidad, we participated in the Flores de le Diaspora African Festival in Costa Rica for two years. These included performances at their National Theatre, (Teatro Melico Salazar).
Early in 2001, The Graduates was launched. We embarked on a successful five-week tour of Panama arranged by Sociedad De Amigos del Museo Afreantillano de Panama (SAMAAP). The band participated in Carnival, and performed at The University of Panama.
As a single-pan, twelve-member contingent of professional musicians, our instruments are carried as luggage. The repertoire includes Calypso, Reggae, Salsa, Bossa Nova and Pop. Among our membership are a talented singer and a dancer/ choreographer, who contribute to the diversity of the group.
©2002 Michael Charles
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