Unheard Voices

Originating in the 1930s, the steelband (a.k.a. steelpan) movement began in the Caribbean, was transplanted to and grew in North America, and has transcended the boundaries of class, race, and gender. Based on a compilation of narratives from Caribbean and American members of the steelband movement, Unheard Voices: The Rise of Steelband and Calypso in the Caribbean and North America traces the history of this unique percussion invention of the twentieth century.

Author A. Myrna Nurse artfully describes the origin and innovators of steelband, the controversies surrounding the music and its leaders, and the violence that shaped the movement. Nurse's portraits of the Caribbean artists describe both their perpetual struggle against poverty and violence, and their innate will to create. Her discussion of the American musicians is a compelling presentation of the grit and determination involved in furthering "the pebbles of the pan."

Unheard Voices relates the experiences of two of the movement's fathers: Elliott "Ellie" Mannette and Neville Jules. Nurse also considers the women who have broken into this art form, as well as Calypso-the music of the steelband-itself. Unheard Voices is a welcome addition to the small but growing body of literature on the musical inventions of the African Diaspora.