Partners/Organization
Pan Ivory Cultural Association, Inc. (PICA) needs to develop strong strategic partnerships to ensure its survival. Important contributors have been Pan Ivory Inc., who has provided a venue for rehearsal at 243rd. Street in Rosedale, Queens, as well as instruments and hardware to be used by the musicians. Their contribution also includes heat and utilities for the premises. PICA is also indebted to Sodas who provides amps and electrical equipment for public performances. Since observing a demo of (Sibling) software, the group is considering its use to teach music theory and composition to its members.
Financial Support currently comes from community activities, participating fees from individuals, and private contributors from parents.
Composers & Mentors
Lennox Phillip |Player, Arranger, Musical Technologist
Responsible for regenerating an idea that for a time, seemed dormant. Steel band musical notes are generated from the sound of a mallet (comprised of a thin wooden or metal rod --akin to a drumstick-- covered with soft rubber) hitting the tuned metal drum head. The percussive sound cannot travel a great distance due to the type of sound waves that are created. The musical note can be captured/harvested successfully using the power of technology.
Isaac Wallace | Player, Arranger, Musical Engineer
Experience musical arranger and composer. Became well know for his lead role with the Del Vikings Steel Orchestra from Tobago.
William Phillip | Player, Arranger, Musical Innovator
Has been developing unique sounds in his arrangements for over 40 years. He started with a group called The Torrid Zone in Trinidad in the '50s with such notables as Oscar Bush (guitar/pan player), Carl "Bumpy Nose" Greenidge (who later became tuner/arranger for The Desperadoes Steel Orchestra), and "Fathead" Joseph, an ingenious bass player, just name a few.
Jamila Lewis | Youth Coordinator, Player
Fourth year of College. Attending Brooklyn College majoring in Special Education. Participated in many live performances including Kingsborough Community College and Madison Square Garden.
Donna Knutt| Youth Coordinator, Player
Student at Stony Brook University majoring in Computer Science with a minor in Studio Art. Provides valuable assistance in web development for PICA, Inc. High tenor pan player with many live performances to her credit.
Jamel Harewood | Band Arranger, Player
Student at Hofstra University majoring in Music and Music Merchandising. Composed various songs for the band. Double second pan player.
Mervyn James | Founding Member
A founding member of the group with knowledge and foresight about steel band affairs. During its existence, he has provided unwavering support for the effort. Has had a close association with steel bands since 1965. Playing double tenors and double seconds with such groups as W.I.T.C.O., Desperadoes. Worked with various arrangers including Beverly Griffith, Robbie Greenidge, Clive Bradley, Pelham Goddard, and Ray Holman. Mervyn now spends time imparting his knowledge with new members.
Winston Phillip | Founding Member
A founding member of the group with tremendous knowledge and foresight about steel band affairs. A former member of Highlanders. He honed his skill under the maestro - Bertie Marshall. Transplanted in NY. Winston provides valuable services as recording secretary for PICA, Inc. During rehearsals, Winston can be found assisting in arrangements and sharing his skill with new members.