By Sandy Conners | Photo courtesy of Jerry Guy, Chair of the USSA Steelpan Association
In a vibrant and deeply cultural conversation, Mr. Jerry Guy, the newly elected Chair of the U.S. Steelpan Association (USSA), shared his passion and vision for advancing steelpan music across the United States. Just four months into his tenure, Guy is already striking a bold tone of unity, growth, and cultural preservation.
Championing Steelpan Music in the U.S.
The U.S. Steelpan Association was created to serve as the collective voice for steel bands nationwide. “We were mandated to promote, educate, and support the steel band movement in all ways possible,” Guy explained. “We’re not quite where we want to be yet, but we’re building.”
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From education and advocacy to creating partnerships and organizing events, the Association is critical in ensuring that steelpan’s legacy continues to thrive in America. At the center of it all is the belief that the steelpan isn’t just an instrument—it’s a cultural bridge.
Facing Challenges with Community-Focused Solutions
One of the most pressing issues facing steelpan bands today, particularly in urban areas like New York, is sustainability. “It’s about more than just playing music,” said Guy. “It’s about paying rent for rehearsal spaces, buying and maintaining instruments, and keeping programs alive.”
With gentrification pushing pan-yards out of their neighborhoods, many bands struggle to stay afloat. The USSA aims to change that by helping organizations build themselves to attract funding and partnerships. “We want to help these groups become strong, visible, and appealing to potential sponsors,” he said.
Opening the Culture to New Audiences
Steelpan music has deep roots in Caribbean culture, but USSA aims to extend its reach far beyond that. “We’re not trying to be exclusive,” said Guy. We want to connect with people from all walks of life. New partnerships mean new opportunities.”
One of the major goals is to bring back the vibrant steelpan events that once defined the community. “When I was growing up in Pan, there were always events. That’s not the case anymore,” Guy noted. “We want to change that and get more visibility for the art form.”
A Vision for Music Education
Education is already a growing space for steelpan music. Across the Midwest and West Coast, schools and colleges are introducing pan to students—but many aren’t yet connected to the broader pan community. That’s where USSA sees itself playing a vital role.
“We want to be the link. If someone out West wants to connect with pan musicians or educators in the East, they should come to us,” said Guy. “We want to bring everyone together, no matter where they are in the U.S.”
In addition to chairing USSA, Jerry Guy has been the long-time captain of Pan In Motion, a respected steel band known both locally and internationally. His dual role allows him to bring valuable insights and tested leadership to the national organization.
“Everything I’ve learned with Pan In Motion, I’m applying here,” he said. “My experience helps guide how we support other bands and artists. I’ve been where they are, and I know what works.”
What’s Next for USSA?
While the Association awaits final confirmations before announcing upcoming events, Guy shared that workshops and community initiatives are in the works and will be announced soon. “We’ve got a lot coming up,” he hinted. “Stay tuned.”
USSA is also welcoming new members—from individual pan players and band leaders to anyone who loves the music. “Pan is for everybody,” Guy said. “There’s no age limit, no experience needed. If you love the art form, you belong.”
How to Get Involved
For those interested in volunteering, taking classes, joining the Association, or simply supporting the movement, Jerry encourages reaching out via email: info@ussa-pan.org
The organization’s website will launch in the coming weeks, opening more doors for outreach and engagement.
Final Words
“As I said before—everybody’s welcome,” Guy concluded. “But for this to work, we need our community. We need the pan community, the Caribbean community, and anyone who feels connected to our actions. If you’re out there and you want to help, we’re here. We’d love to have you.”
With a fresh vision and strong cultural roots, under Jerry Guy’s leadership, the U.S. Steelpan Association is set to rekindle the rhythm of Steelpan across the nation—one beat, one band, one community at a time.
Leadership Rooted in Experience
Keeping the Beat Alive: U.S. Steelpan Association Pushes Forward Under New Leadership added by Caribbean American Weekly on
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