History
The musical phenomenon of the tuned steel drum is sometimes referred to as the only acoustic instrument to be invented in the 20th century. A tiny island in the Caribbean is well known as the birthplace of the steelband and calypso. And, for some jazz aficionados, this island, called Trinidad & Tobago, is also considered the home of Kaiso Jazz, one of the more distinctive forms of Caribbean jazz. In the 1960's, New York City provided a home for the expression of Caribbean culture. Since then, each year has brought increased participation by individuals who are mesmerized by the steelband and the power of live performances.
In the late 1980's, associates of a steelband, formerly known in Trinidad as Highlanders, got together in NYC to start a steelband to be called Pan Ivory. These individuals had started a concept years ago to merge the steel pan with amplifiers because of certain inherent characteristics in the pans. During the late '60's, the Highlanders disbanded and some of the members relocated to NYC. In the late 80's, Pan Ivory was started with the intention of further exploring the educational innovation and technological integration of the steelband.
In 2004, music educators serving with Pan Ivory pondered how to meet the need to have a new national standard specific to composing and arranging music for the steel pan. After consultation among the members, it was decided to have a non-profit group handle the development of this idea. In March 2004, an application to the IRS was made for 501(c)(3) status. Three months later, non-profit status was granted to Pan Ivory Cultural Association, Inc. Immediately, the project addressed fundraising and sustainability.