Checking in with Dr. B.

Born in the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, Carlon Lyons began his musical journey at age 9 at the Southern Marines Steel Band Foundation in Trinidad and Tobago, under the director Mr. Malamo Joseph.Carlon’s first performance was in 1994 at the National Panorama Competition held in Trinidad yearly. His love for the art form grew and he began taking part in competitions and events. In 1997 he placed 1st in the “Trinidad and Tobago Music Festival” Steel Pan Solo Category playing Chopin’s Nocturne in E♭major (Op. 9 No. 2). Carlon later joined the Skiffle Bunch Steel Orchestra focusing on the steel pan with his new musical family. After completing his Secondary School education, he was awarded a scholarship to Florida Memorial University to pursue a Bachelor of Arts degree under the direction of Dr. Dawn K Batson. He left his home to go on to become a musician, educator and performer. In 2006 Carlon was offered a job as a Steel pan music teacher during the summer break at the ‘Sol Fest Performance program’ held in Key West, Florida. In Key West he performed at local bars, clubs and hotels, The Inn at Key West, The Island Dog, Sloppy Joe and Irish Kevins to name a few. He also played at Mallory Square as a street performer.After completing his degree, he moved to North Broward and worked as DJ and musician at the Mardi Gras Casino for many years. He retired as a DJ and returned to Trinidad to live and become a businessman and entrepreneur.In 2017, he started his company Carlon Lyons Music Group, where he teaches and produces music to anyone with a desire for music education and performance.Carlon Lyons https://carlonlyonsmusicgroup.com/ speaks about his many experiences and the people and entities that  have influenced his journey. Southern Marines Steel Orchestra https://www.facebook.com/p/Southern-Marines-Steel-Orchestra-100063570849663/Skiffle Bunch Steel Orchestra https://www.facebook.com/Skiffle/All Stars Steel Orchestra Curry Tabasco https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4xg_Z0IWNGkUnion Clayton Bay Secondary School https://www.facebook.com/p/Union-Claxton-Bay-Secondary-100084515713264/Orville WolseyFlorida Memorial UniversityNora Revelin Steel Your Heart Band https://keysweekly.com/42/steel-your-heart-pan-band-embraces-goombay-festival-vibe/George Victory https://www.keysnews.com/paradise/george-victory-key-west-is-like-trinidad-without-the-mountains/article_6997c5b0-856d-11ee-aa1c-f3b8413dd9ad.htmlSol Fest https://solfestfl.com/Trinweld Inc. https://trinweldinc.com/YTEPP Limited https://www.ytepp.edu.tt/Thank you for listening. If you prefer to watch the video, check it out on YouTube. Visit our Jumpstart Networking Forum at Keep Your Joy and Rise and follow us on Instagram.

With two hit shows currently on the air and 7 films having been released in the last ten years on television, Sherrese Moise is one of the most successful and influential producers working in the film and television industry today. Sherrese was born in Trinidad and Tobago, and works in Atlanta and Los Angeles. Sherrese, launched her company as the Managing Director & Producer of SM Elevation LLC, a film, television and event consulting company. As a consulting producer, Sherrese continues to serve as producer for Bobbcat Films in a role she has maintained over the past 10 years, an Event Manager for American Black film festival for the past 21 years and Talent Logistics Producer for the past 20 years. Sherrese is currently the supervising producer for episodes of the reality docu series “Love and Hip Hop (Atlanta) (VH1), “ Couples Retreat” (VH1); and Girls Cruise (VH1). She was also the Supervising Producer on Bobbcat Films TV series “ Last Call” and “ Mann and Wife” Bounce TV. Sherrese’s television film producing credits include the 2024 Hallmark Movie “ Sense and Sensibility”, “Life Size 2” (Disney), “Bad Dad Rehab”, Girlfriends Getaway and Girlfriends Getaway 2, and episodes of “ Rickey Smiley for Real” for TV One network.  Sherrese’s films have a combined theatrical and digital revenue of over 25 million dollars.In her role of Supervising producer, she has a specialty in producing content filmed in international filming locations as a Unit producer who cultivates, maintains and promotes international production relationships with several film commissions, business vendors and production companies. Sherrese has been instrumental in several productions being produced and filmed in the Caribbean, South America, South Africa and the Middle East. In addition to her producing credits, Sherrese has worked on over 500 Award shows and television specials in the past 20 years as a Talent Flow Stage Manager, her credits include Grammys, Emmys, PBS - Grammy Salute to legends, A Capitol Hill 4th and Memorial Day Specials, CBS- Stand up to Cancer, Netflix-Hilarity for Charity, NAACP Awards, Emmys, ESPYS, People Choice Awards, BET Hip Hop and Black girls rock, BET Awards and Soul Train Awards to name a few.Her passion for education and service over the years has remained consistent and in 2022, Sherrese graduated TEXAS A&M LAW SCHOOL and has recently incorporated legal consultancy into her strategic entertainment business focusing in Intellectual Property related to special projects . Her clients include celebrities, Film Commissions and International tourism authorities, international businesses, and US and Middle East based entertainment and non-profit organizations.Sherrese speaks about the importance of volunteering, mentorship and living a life of integrity.Lions Club https://www.lionsclubs.org/en/start-our-approach/club-locatorRoger M Bobb http://www.bobbcatfilms.com/roger-m-bobb/Scott Sternburg https://www.ssprods.com/aboutTexas A&M University School of Law https://law.tamu.edu/https://www.hallmarkchannel.com/sense-and-sensibilityThank you for listening. If you prefer to watch the video, check it out on YouTube. Visit our Jumpstart Networking Forum at Keep Your Joy and Rise and follow us on Instagram.

Gerard Boucaud is a highly skilled and experienced professional with over two decades of experience in audit, information technology consulting, and music. Originally from Trinidad and Tobago, Gerard has a master’s degree in business administration, a bachelor’s degree in music, and a bachelor’s degree in management information systems.Gerard has been involved with music for many years as a performer, arranger, teacher, and conductor. He has toured Europe, the Caribbean, and North America as a performer with various steelpan orchestras and ensembles. He has prepared musical arrangements for and worked with organizations and groups such as Trinity College Pan Ensemble, Arima Senior Comprehensive, Bishop Anstey High School, MAST Academy, Florida Memorial Steelband, Trinidad All Stars, Bowling Green State University, and Melo Groove Steel Orchestra.Gerard’s interest in using the Steelpan for the teaching of music led him to work withinstitutions such as Miami Dade County Public Schools and the College of Science, Technology, and Applied Arts of Trinidad and Tobago where he developed and taught academic programs in Music Business, Music Theory, Music History and Ensemble Performance. He has conducted workshops and training sessions on the methodology for teaching and arranging music for the Steelpan and has been responsible for academic operations, business planning and budgets for various programs, including HAVEN Academy and Melo Groove Steelband Academy.Gerard pursues various professional interests outside of music. He is a Realtor, Certified Internal Auditor, Certified Information Systems Auditor, and a Certified Data Privacy Solutions Engineer. Outside of his professional interests he is an avid traveler.Gerard speaks about  balance in work, in life, in giving and in receiving. He also touches on the joys and hardships of travel and on entrepreneurship.Trinidad Carnival https://visittrinidad.ttHow to see the Northern Lights in IcelandMelo Groove Steelband Academy https://youtu.be/gFC6LgCgGaY?si=7k-Jg280z6nwr_yfThank you for listening. If you prefer to watch the video, check it out on YouTube. Visit our Jumpstart Networking Forum at Keep Your Joy and Rise and follow us on Instagram.

Leon Foster Thomas is a gifted international jazz musician and steel pan virtuoso. His music is a blend of his Caribbean roots with the harmonic and improvisational complexities of jazz, creating a lively and eclectic meld all his own.Critics laud him as “the next big thing on his instrument”, “...an enthralling improvisor...” (All About Jazz); “...masterful with impeccable musicianship” (When Steel Talks); and “a benevolent wizard” (Venice Magazine).Leon’s deft and ambitious command of the steel pan has transcended beyond the instrument’s novel stereotype to being featured at world stages such as New York’s Jazz at Lincoln Center, Adrienne Arsht Center of the Performing Arts (Miami), Moscow International House of Music, Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Perm International Jazz Festival (Russia), Miami Downtown Jazz Festival, International Festival of Contemporary Culture (Kazakhstan), and Pittsburgh Jazz Live International Festival. He has also worked with artists such as: Hugh Masekela, Randy Brecker, John Daversa, Sammy Figueroa, Vince Mendoza, Richard Smallwood, Ky-Mani Marley, Len “Boogsie” Sharpe, Dolly Parton, Igor Butman, John Beasley, and many more.March 2023 marked the release of Calasanitus, the album by Leon Foster Thomas. As one of the leading steel pan jazz virtuosos in the world, Foster has gained global recognition via a plethora of accolades including winning both the solo and duet competitions at the World Steelband Music Festival, as well as releasing a series of critically acclaimed albums, most recently Metamorphosis on respected label Ropadope Records. Now he is set to showcase his inimitable talent once again, with a new body of recorded work that encapsulates the intricacy, energy, and sonic brilliance that Leon Foster Thomas creates on his instrument of choice. The new album Calasanitus, described as a book of songs dedicated to his dear mother, Hillouise Calasanitus Foster, showcases a unique blend of Caribbean influence and spirit evolving from Foster’s Trinidadian heritage, combined with dexterous and innovative jazz complexity. The compositions generate an unmistakable vibe born out of the traditions of the West Indies and seamlessly incorporate the discipline and sensibilities of modern jazz music alongside this. The result is a sound that is beautifully calming and vitally energetic in equal measure.Leon has a Bachelor of Music degree from Florida Memorial University and a Master of Music degree at Florida International University. He is currently working on his Ph.D. at Royal Holloway University of London researching Caribbean Jazz in the Anglophone and Francophone Caribbean. He continues to perform at festivals and concerts around the world, as well as conducting lectures and master classes at various educational and cultural institutions.Leon Foster ThomasLeon speaks about his journey in music, his compositions such as:I Am an Immigrant from his “Calasanitus” albumMusicians such as:Ron ReidKen “Professor”Thank you for listening. If you prefer to watch the video, check it out on YouTube. Visit our Jumpstart Networking Forum at Keep Your Joy and Rise and follow us on Instagram.

Le`Roi Simmonds is a steel pan artist from St. Thomas, Virgin Islands,with a Bachelor's Degree in Pop Music from Florida Memorial University, anda Masters Degree in Jazz Studies from New York University. At the age often, Le`Roi started playing the steel pan with the DownstreetPandemonium Steel Orchestra. Today, as an adult he specializes inperformance, arranging, and education. Le`Roi presently works for the VISuperior Court Rising Stars Steel Orchestra as an Instructor/Arranger wherehe and his colleagues are always working hard mentoring the youth of theVirgin Islands using the steel pan, to keep children off the streets and inschool.With over 20 years of experience, Le`Roi has traveled around theCaribbean and the United States, winning various awards, such as theVirginia Panorama Caribbean Festival, Florida Memorial University Researchand Performing Arts Day in Miami, the Music USA Festival in Orlando, and theTrinidad and Tobago National Junior Steel Band Panorama to name a few.Some of Simmonds recorded works include steel bands such as the RisingStars Youth Steel Orchestra (St. Thomas), E. Benjamin Oliver Steel Owls(St. Thomas), Florida Memorial Steel Band (Miami), and St. Margaret’s SteelOrchestra (Trinidad). Le’Roi Simmonds is the Steelpan Director at the University of the Virgin Islands and teaches at Bertha C. Boschulte Middle School in St. Thomas USVI.NLCB PanoGrama 2021 | Semis - Leroi Simmondshttps://www.facebook.com/reel/844649540642994Le’Roi speaks about:Pan in the United States Virgin Islands (USVI)Musicians - Leon “Foster” Thomas, Collins Peters, Melton Mustafa, " rel="nofollow">Thank you for listening. If you prefer to watch the video, check it out on YouTube. Visit our Jumpstart Networking Forum at Keep Your Joy and Rise and follow us on Instagram.

Freddy Harris III - Music is Life checks in with Dr. B“Freddy Harris III is an award-winning musician and music producer. He first made a name for himself as a steelpan player for orchestras and artists. He is the son of popular Trinidadian guitarist, Freddie Harris Jr, and has been playing in groups as a steelpan player since the age of just six, winning many awards for his musical skills.He was born in New York City in 1980 and moved with his parents to Trinidad & Tobago that same year. He received early musical training from his father - guitarist and arranger for Harry Belafonte who also toured with Ashford & Simpson, Peter Tosh, The Mighty Sparrow, Hugh Masekela and Miriam Makeba.  Freddy began playing the steel pan at the age of four. At six, he moved to St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, and began playing with Rising Stars Steel Orchestra. In 1990 he returned to the US and continued to develop his musical skills. He placed 1st in the 1993 Miami Florida Carnival Pan Solo Competition, 3rd in the 1995 Baltimore Maryland Carnival Pan Solo Competition and performed at the Manhattan Center. In 1998 Freddy graduated as the valedictorian from New York City Repertory Company High School and received a full scholarship from Something Positive, Inc. to attend Florida Memorial University (FMU). At FMU he co-arranged under the direction of Dr. Dawn K. Batson, Director of the FMU Steel Orchestra, later going on to tour with them as their Ambassador. He came 2nd at the Trinidad & Tobago World Steel Orchestra Classics Solo and performed for President Bill Clinton that same year. He has gone on to perform at countless festivals and venues worldwide, including the NAACP 94th Annual Convention Gospel Extravaganza, The Elephant room in Austin, Texas, B.B. King’s in New York, Lincoln Center, and even a private house party for Jerry Seinfield. BET’s 106 & Park, Good Morning America and MTV’s TRL are just a few of the television shows on which this professional musician has featured. Freddy is the owner & arranger of steel orchestra ‘Steel-X-Plosion USA,’ with whom he competed in the New York Panorama. Freddy is also the first steelpan player to hit over a million views on YouTube for his rendition of “Flight of The Bumblebee.”These days you can find Freddy producing, engineering and performing alongside top-name artists. Some of the names he has worked with include Ski Mask The Slump God, Timberland, and Melanie Fiona. He is also known as FH3 beats and has released a number of Steel drum sample packs with Splice.com, as well as original tracks. In 2019, he released 12 steel drum albums and 5 in 2020. He is currently planning to release more music under both Freddy Harris III and FH3 beats, produced and engineered by himself at the famous Steel Xplosion Studios.”www.panonthenet.com/tnt/2012/arrangers/ny/freddy-harris-3.htm accessed 4 August 2023Freddy Harris III speaks about:Trap MusicHis journey in musicThe influence of his father - Freddy Harris Jr.Advice for young musiciansThank you for listening. If you prefer to watch the video, check it out on YouTube. Visit our Jumpstart Networking Forum at Keep Your Joy and Rise and follow us on Instagram.

I like to look past the sky…. Kareem Thompson is Checking in with Dr. BCheck Dr. B's website https://www.keepyourjoyandrise.comInstagram https://www.instagram.com/checkinginwithdrbComposer, Arranger, Steel pan virtuoso from Brooklyn, NY. Kareem got started with his family band "K.I.T Caribbean Connection" in the mid 90's. He has performed with the likes of Ludacris, Mighty Sparrow, Brian Simpson, Jessy J and is currently touring with jazz saxophonist Elan Trotman & jazz trumpeter Etienne Charles.  Kareem is also a well educated graduate of Berklee College of Music in Boston MA. He has performed at a wide range of jazz festivities and events including Tobago Jazz Fest, Springfield Jazz Fest, Pittsburgh Jazz Fest, MTV VMA Awards, Carnegie Hall, Jazz at Lincoln Center & many many more.  His debut album "PAN ROOTS CULTURE" is available via CDBaby, iTunes, Amazon Music with another on the way.  Check ou Kareem’s “Dream Sessions” on "EIGHT HOURS A DAY" / Dream Sessions #2https://www.kareemthompsonmusic.com/?fbclid=IwAR2gGL6BntZdk04iGDSi29SxVLbq7z7ZvKXoYT80oA0tqJz98ReMfIy4xmkKareem speaks aboutDjembeThe Hylanders Steel OrchestraEdgar “Pops” Fitzgerald and K.I.T Caribbean ConnectionScipio “Sarge” SergeantRaf RobertsonClive BradleyBerklee College of MusicPan, Roots, CultureDream SessionsThank you for listening. If you prefer to watch the video, check it out on YouTube. Visit our Jumpstart Networking Forum at Keep Your Joy and Rise and follow us on Instagram.

Immediately after graduating Midwood High School 16, Khuent Rose received a music scholarship to Florida Memorial University under the tutelage of Dr. Dawn Batson. Influenced by Jazz Professor by the late Melton Mustafa and classmates Leon “Foster” Thomas and Freddie Harris III, Rose developed an inimitable style of music. Faculty eventually encouraged other venues better suited for his advanced studies. He returned to NY and was commissioned by Martin Douglas to be the Musical Director of Crossfire Steel Orchestra; he continued his studies at Brooklyn College (Music Composition) under the guidance of Dr. Benjamin Bierman and Dr. Tania Leon. In the Spring of 2010, he graduated majoring in Music Composition with a Minor in English and Philosophy. At Brooklyn College he was able to debut several works during Student Composer concerts, perform in the Jazz and Percussion ensembles, and received the De Los Mederos special award in Composition (inducted by Dr. Leon)He's been a Preschool teacher, Teaching Artist, Enrichment provider, Counselor , Minister, Comedian, Steelpan tuner and Music Teacher within the NYC school system. He is regularly commissioned by Brooklyn Conservatory Orchestra, NY Botanical Gardens and local politicians to perform and represent the Steelpan community. For over 20 years, he’s consistently been a Church instrumentalist, Musical Director and/or Choir Director. He currently serves as an Episcopal musician at 2 Brooklyn churches. He still finds time to perform with Andre White, Kareem Thompson and Baba Neil Clarke as a steel pannist, accompanist and keyboardist.Rose has lectured at Medgar Evers, Brooklyn College, The New School, Princeton and City Tech, advocates for the Steelpan community of New York and acts as a consultant to various local and international Steelpan associations.  2023 is his 9th year as Music teacher at the Achievement First Brooklyn High School Charter school in Bedstuy where he teaches Steelpan, Piano, and Music production.   His unique form of Khuentertainment is engaging, thought-provoking and unforgettable. Khuent speaks about his formative years in music and those who influenced him;  his family; the impact of music therapy; resilience in the face of devastation; relationships between band leaders and players; orisha; music as a foundation for the future and music as a tool to refine as opposed to a tool to medicate.Check out:www.Khuentertainment.comhttps://www.panonthenet.com/tnt/2011/news/oped/krose-do-something-for-pan-eduate-3-28-11.htmKhuent's influences:CASYM Arddin Herbert Dwight DeSilvaFelix Spengler Tania LeónCrossfire Steel OrchestraThank you for listening. If you prefer to watch the videoThank you for listening. If you prefer to watch the video, check it out on YouTube. Visit our Jumpstart Networking Forum at Keep Your Joy and Rise and follow us on Instagram.

Born around the Trinidadian culture, Kendall Williams has adopted the country's national instrument, the steel pan. From as early as the age of four, Kendall made efforts to mimic his parents as they displayed their talents in a Miami-based steel band. It wasn't long before his efforts turned into a reality as he developed his skills and passion for the instrument. As he got older his passion brought out a connection to music and he was able to perform with large, world-renowned steel bands in Trinidad and Tobago as well as bands in the New York based scene for years and counting. He took things a step further changing his major from architecture to music performance on steel pan at Florida Memorial University. He was able to tour the lower United States with the Chorale and even travel to Brazil with the school steel band, all under the direction of Dr. Dawn Batson. Upon graduating with his B.A. in Music Performance, Kendall was encouraged to further his studies at NYU Steinhardt where he completed his Masters of Music in Theory and Composition. There he was able to study with Michael Gordon, Julia Wolfe, and Rich Shemaria while actively participating in the NYU Steel band under the leadership of Artist Faculty member Josh Quillen.  As he moved closer to graduating, his goals included composing and arranging music that could further showcase the steel pan for the virtuous instrument it is, while bringing his unique style to more conventional instruments known today. Now that he has graduated he aggressively pursues a career as a composer, arranger, educator, and advocate for the steel pan instrument. He works to open peoples' minds to the possibilities steel pan can offer the world by showing that the instrument is far more versatile than it may seem. In 2013, 2015, and 2017, he had music for steel pan and contemporary ensemble programmed on the Bang on A Can Marathon. In 2020 he wrote a solo composition featuring percussion for the Virtual Bang on A Can Marathon while performing as a soloist in the Virtual Bang on A Can marathon the following month. Just before that, he was awarded the opportunity to work with the Brooklyn Philharmonic on a project that involved steel pan ensemble and Orchestra. In 2014 he was the Van Lier Fellow with the American Composers Orchestra. In addition, he is also currently a doctoral student in music composition at Princeton University! There he studied under the auspices of Dan Trueman, Steve Mackey, Dmitri Tymockzo, and So Percussion. In his most recent years, he has been actively lecturing and leading workshops at various colleges, universities and grade schools across the United States, while completing his dissertation. Dr. Williams was awarded the doctoral degree in Music Composition from Princeton University in May of 2023. Kendall is an active adjunct at Brooklyn College, a teaching assistant in a steel band class at Princeton University recently receiving his doctorate in Music Composition and is an adjunct at New York University where he also teaches private lessons in steel pan. Presently, his goals include establishing steel pan music programs in colleges and universities that will allow musicians to major in steel pan. While pursuing that, he also sits as CEO of Pan in Motion, an organization that he started to promote history, education, culture, and sustainability in steel pan. https://www.kendallkwilliams.com/bioThank you for listening. If you prefer to watch the video, check it out on YouTube. Visit our Jumpstart Networking Forum at Keep Your Joy and Rise and follow us on Instagram.

Laura Elaine Scheele is an Indiana native, wife, mother to three wild and wonderful children, and a lifelong word nerd. Her love for language led her to writing and in 2022 her poetry was published in Bouquet of Stars: Poetry Chapel Volume 3 Chelan Harkin and Friends. Prior to writing, she was a professional singer for the Catholic church and prior to that, a kindergarten teacher with an education degree from Indiana University. Music and education are common themes in  her poetry, as well as, hope and nature. Her goal with her writing is to continue to use it as a platform for good. She hopes to educate about and shed light on things sometimes unnoticed and unseen around us. Laura believes that her job is to cause pause and awareness with her writing.Link with Laura via Facebook or email: lauraEpoetry@gmail.comRead her poetry in:Bouquet of Stars Chelan Harkin and FriendsLaura speaks about finding her voice, using art as a force to bring people together, and her hopes for the future.Thank you for listening. If you prefer to watch the video, check it out on YouTube. Visit our Jumpstart Networking Forum at Keep Your Joy and Rise and follow us on Instagram.

Growing up in a highly creative, talented and entrepreneurial family, artisan Gabrielle Punch began exploring her own passion for creativity from an early age.  Over the years she has worked in several different mediums, from clay and ceramics, woodwork and paper, to photography, videography and graphic design.  20 years later in 2015, Gabrielle discovered her newest passion from leather-crafting.  A long lover of leather and leather products, she was introduced by a friend to the raw material, and very quickly began experimenting and creating unique pieces.  She entered her first artisan market that year and received a tremendous response from patrons who were impressed with her work, which they described as classy, stylish and so functional. As the support and encouragement grew, so did Gabrielle’s llove for working with leather.  She acquired some hand tools and through trial and error, taught herself skills and techniques including sewing with leather.  She describes herself as a perfectionist who continues to learn more and more with each new project. To date, Gabrielle has designed and created over 1000 original, one-of-a-kind pieces.  Taking her time to think about and work on each detail to be added.  Her main focus is to create pieces for everyday use that fulfil the basic needs of her clients and customers.  Almost never working with pre-designed sketches, she works completely on the fly with images only in her mind and with this she prides herself on never repeating a design...NOT EVEN ONCE.  She says “I never know what the full end result is going to look like, but I’ll know it’s done when it’s DONE!”In 2018 Gabrielle made a bold and courageous move quitting the security of her 9-5 job, and launched into D’Punchline as a full-time entrepreneur.  She says it’s the biggest decision she ever made, and she has never been happier!Check Gabrielle’s website:https://dpunchline.com/homeOn Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/dpunchlinett/On Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/depunchlinett/Thank you for listening. If you prefer to watch the video, check it out on YouTube. Visit our Jumpstart Networking Forum at Keep Your Joy and Rise and follow us on Instagram.

The Two Legs That I Walk On - Astar Bishop is Checking in with Dr. BCheck Dr. B's website https://www.keepyourjoyandrise.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkinginwithdrb/Astar Bishop is a camera shy practicing artist, musician, composer and educator who is passionate about cinematic music and songwriting. His art is a blend of expressionism and cubism.  Laid back and hardworking in his music, Astar is always listening, trying to improve, staying current yet knowing that art never ages.  The painting used for his cover photo is entitled Musical Tree. Finding physical things which could represent music. On the surface the trunk represents the main theme and the branches are the motifs which develop into more detail which eventually tell the whole story. The roots can be the inspiration for the song and the general ground work such as the musical history of the composer.Astar received his BM in Jazz Studies from Florida Memorial University under the late maestro Melton Mustafa.  He teaches Art and Music at Queen’s Royal College (QRC), one of Trinidad and Tobago’s oldest secondary schools. Check Astar’s website: www.starshopstudios.com and on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@astarbishop7650Astar touches on:His art and his musicAdvice for aspiring artistsHis mentors and fellow musicians:Fred AbsalomAndre WallaceKyle HillKen ReyesMelton MustafaInfluences:Network Rapso Riddum BandBrother ResistanceRay HolmanStarlift Steel OrchestraInvaders Steel OrchestraPhase II Steel OrchestraImpressionismQueen’s Royal College (QRC)University of the West IndiesFlorida Memorial UniversityThank you for listening. If you prefer to watch the video, check it out on YouTube. Visit our Jumpstart Networking Forum at Keep Your Joy and Rise and follow us on Instagram.

I live in the AND - Kenrick Noel is Checking in with Dr. B Episode 6I live in the ANDCheck Dr. B's website https://www.keepyourjoyandrise.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/checkinginwithdrb/Kenrick J. Noel is a musician, adjudicator, and music educator who has received accolades in the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada, across the Caribbean, and in his homeland of Tobago.  He holds a  Bachelor of Arts in Music (Honors) from Florida Memorial University, a Post Graduate Diploma in Education with specialization in Visual and Performing Arts from the University of the West Indies; a Diploma in Events Management from George Washington University and is pursuing a Masters in Carnival Studies at the University of Trinidad and Tobago. Mr. Noel judges for Trinidad and Tobago’s National Panorama and Junior Panorama competitions; Calypso competitions and the Tobago House of Assembly Festival activities to name just a few of his cultural contributions.Kenrick’s lifelong mantra is simply “Good, better, best…never should you rest until your good is better, and your better is the best!” Kenrick Noel touches on: The influence of his parentsFenwrick St. Michael “Michigan” Noel  and Marie-Louise Kerr-NoelHis mentors:Nervin “Teach” SaundersTeddy BelgraveNestor SullivanEsther BatsonSchools and OrganizationsArima Government Secondary SchoolArima Senior Comprehensive SchoolFlorida Memorial UniversityNorthern Illinois UniversityUniversity of the West IndiesUniversity of Trinidad and TobagoSignal Hill Secondary SchoolPan TrinbagoNGC Steel Explosion Steel OrchestraVoices of Deliverance, Calvary Road Deliverance TabernacleChromesthesia  - seeing music in colourThank you for listening. If you prefer to watch the video, check it out on YouTube. Visit our Jumpstart Networking Forum at Keep Your Joy and Rise and follow us on Instagram.

Don La Foucade  - Checking in with Dr. B Episode 5Not just to survive but to go on and thrive!Don La Foucade is a Maxwell Leadership Certified Team Member who has been delivering inspirational talks and workshops around the Caribbean since 1999. Don has been the featured speaker at numerous graduations and achievement day exercises, has facilitated professional development workshops for school teachers and other audiences, including university students and lecturers and now offers all-day public speaking workshops to organizations.  From 2011, Don hosted a series of youth workshops 9 of which were sponsored by the Republic Bank of Trinidad and Tobago with the 10th on the way -  entitled “I Got This!” Don serves on the board of United Way of Trinidad and Tobago, and supports the local United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in its ‘Citizen Security’ initiatives, particularly as they relate to the youth.Don is often called “the Word Man”,  and his love of the eagle is seen in the titles of his three books ( a 4th is on the way): “IN FULL FLIGHT!”  which is also the name of his inspirational company, “FACING THE STORMS OF LIFE…IN FULL FLIGHT!” and the ‘In Full Flight Note+Book!’ which is a unique notebook and a book in one. In sport, Don has coordinated national and international football championships. With his identical twin brother Dion, he was Director of the La Foucade Soccer Clinic.  He is also a mentor to a number of top athletes. In 2020 he co-hosted sixteen (16) Zoom Webinars with Trinidad and Tobago’s 3X Olympian Sailor Andrew Lewis. These webinars, recently updated to a television series, are now available on the YouTube Channel: ‘Positive Moments with Andrew & Don’.  Check out Don’s website:www.doninfullflight.comDon touches on:Using the power of words to positively impact livesHis experiences as a motivational speaker and counselorHIs “Aha” momentJoy in givingThe Don Methodology Sesame StreetChristopher ReeveTrinity College, Trinidad, Trinidad and TobagoThank you for listening. If you prefer to watch the video, check it out on YouTube. Visit our Jumpstart Networking Forum at Keep Your Joy and Rise and follow us on Instagram.

Joanna Shortt, a native of Arima, Trinidad, Trinidad and Tobago, is a musician, educator, composer and steelpan adjudicator who has been involved in the steelband movement since the age of 12. She strongly believes in the merits of music and education and its ability to create and nurture creativity that is crucial to one’s holistic development.She is the holder of a Diploma in Education from the University of the West Indies; a Master of Philosophy (Mphil) in Cultural Studies where she presented a thesis titled “Gender in the Contemporary Steelband”; and is a 2005 music and academic scholarship recipient of Florida Memorial University, Miami, Florida where she received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Popular Music specializing in the steelpan with a minor in Business Administration. She is also a holder of a National Youth Music Award and other accolades for her musical performances and contributions both locally and internationally.She continues to pursue her passion for music and education as a Music Educator and Acting Dean of Discipline at El Dorado West Secondary School in Trinidad. Joanna is certain that in the very near future she will utilize her teaching skills at the university level, start her own music school and/or divert to areas of music administration or music business in which she has long been interested.Hear Joanna sing Sam Cooke's "A Change is Gonna Come"https://www.keepyourjoyandrise.com/more-mediaJoanna touches on:The importance of family support and traditionMusic and teachingHer thesis "Gender in the Contemporary Steelband"Invaders Steel Orchestrahttps://www.facebook.com/ShellInvaderstt/Arima Angel Harps Steel OrchestraHer Mentor and Godfather Nervin "Teach" Saunders https://www.panonthenet.com/opinions/2020/nervin-teach-saunders-8-2-20.htmThank you for listening. If you prefer to watch the video, check it out on YouTube. Visit our Jumpstart Networking Forum at Keep Your Joy and Rise and follow us on Instagram.

Liam Teague is Professor of Music and Head of Steelpan studies at Northern Illinois University (NIU), where he also directs the renowned NIU Steelband. Teague is also the recipient of an NIU Presidential Research, Scholarship and Artistry Professor Award. Hailed as the “Paganini of the Steelpan”, his commitment to demonstrating the great musical possibilities of the steelpan has taken him throughout the world. Many of Liam's compositions and arrangements are published with MaumauMusic, PanPress and RamajayMusic,  He is steelband director at Birch Creek Music Performance Center in Door County, Wisconsin.Teague is also the author of a steelpan method for beginners published by the Hal Leonard Corporation.  He has many recordings to his credit, including: Hands Like Lightning, For Lack of Better Words, Panoramic: Rhythm Through an Unobstructed View and Open Window.  Liam Teague - Hands Like LightningLiam Teague - A Visit to HellLiam performing “Algorhythm”  by Robert Chappell premiere videoCheck out Liam's jazz arrangements in the "Videos" section at www.liamteague.comLinkshttps://www.niu.edu/music/faculty/teague.shtmlLiam Teague Bio-videoNIU and Hands Like Lightninghttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1JMgZaCb9WMAl O’Connorhttps://www.panonthenet.com/news/2019/jun/founder-of-the-NIU-Steelband-program-has-passed-away-6-10-2019.htm Cliff Alexis https://www.pas.org/about/hall-of-fame/clifford-alexisNIU and Steelbandhttps://125keymoments.niu.edu/the-niu-steelband-is-formed-1973/ Liam Teague and Robert ChappellBranches of Snow, Robert ChappellPangelichttp://www.fayeseeman.com/pangelicduo/Darren Sheppardhttps://www.fonclaire.com/team/darren-sheppard Robert Chappellhttps://www.niu.edu/music/faculty/chappell.shtmlLes Trillahttps://www.legacy.com/us/obituaries/chicagotribune/name/lester-trilla-obituary?id=5350006Fay Seemanhttps://www.niu.edu/music/facThank you for listening. If you prefer to watch the video, check it out on YouTube. Visit our Jumpstart Networking Forum at Keep Your Joy and Rise and follow us on Instagram.

Josh Quillen has forged a unique identity in the contemporary music world as all-around percussionist, expert steel drum (also known as the steel pan) performer (lauded as “softly sophisticated” by the New York Times), and composer. His collaborations with other composers frequently incorporate the steel drums as a core element.A member of the acclaimed ensemble Sō Percussion since 2006, Josh has performed at Carnegie Hall, the Brooklyn Academy of Music, The Lincoln Center Festival, Stanford Lively Arts, and dozens of other venues in the United States. In that time, Sō Percussion has toured Russia, Spain, Australia, Italy, Germany, and Scotland. He has had the opportunity to work closely with Steve Reich, Steve Mackey, Paul Lansky, David Lang, Matmos, Dan Deacon, and many others.An avid educator, Josh is a performer-in-residence at Princeton University with Sō Percussion, as well as co-director of the Sō Percussion Summer Institute, an intensive workshop for college-aged percussionists on the campus of Princeton University. He is in his 14th year as the director of the New York University Steel Band.Listen to Josh’s tribute to Martin Douglas aka “Dougie”:Josh touches on:The importance of family and mentors Joan Wenzel and the Dover High School Steelband The Ohio State Marching BandLarry Snider and the University of Akron Steelband The maestro - Len “Boogsie” Sharpe:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ve7MbtNh25ghttps://www.discogs.com/artist/4059016-Lennox-Boogsie-SharpeThe late, great Clifford Alexis:https://www.pas.org/about/hall-of-fame/clifford-alexishttps://niutoday.info/2019/02/04/cliff-alexis-co-founder-of-nius-steelband-program-passes-at-82/Teaching, performing ensembles, community development and podcastingNYU SteelSō PercussionLearn more about Josh:Josh QuillenThank you for listening. If you prefer to watch the video, check it out on YouTube. Visit our Jumpstart Networking Forum at Keep Your Joy and Rise and follow us on Instagram.

Arddin Herbert, family man and multi talented musical director of Shell Invaders Steel Orchestra of Trinidad and Tobago, speaks with Dr. B. about his journey in life and in the steelband world. Listen to Arddin Herbert and Shell Invaders Steel Orchestra at Panorama 2020 Arddin touches on:The importance of family support systems and mentors such as Geraldine Connor and Tania LéonJ’Ouvert - the opening of Carnival in Trinidad and Tobago and the diaspora. A goodbye to the flesh and perhaps things that beset the mind? Learn more about J’Ouvert Shell Invaders Steel Orchestra - information about Invaders thanks to  Ronald C. Emrit WoodTrin Steel Orchestra - The championship winning merge in the 1980s of Woodbrook Secondary and Trinity College for the Trinidad and Tobago Schools Steelband FestivalCASYM Steel OrchestraJoin the Keep Your Joy and Rise Jumpstart Network with Dr. B. About Dr. B.Dr. B., also known as Dr. Dawn K. Batson, is a creative professional with over 20 years of experience in multicultural education and arts administration. She utilizes music and the arts with emphasis on the steel pan (the steel drum in the United States) as a medium for cross-cultural outreach. As the Executive Director of Keep Your Joy and Rise, LLC, she conducts training sessions in personal empowerment, team building, equity and inclusion for professionals and institutions across the globe. Disclaimer:Checking in with Dr. B. is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only.  The views and opinions expressed by guests do not necessarily reflect the views of the host.Thank you for listening. If you prefer to watch the video, check it out on YouTube. Visit our Jumpstart Networking Forum at Keep Your Joy and Rise and follow us on Instagram.