Tutorial High encouraged to revive music school with steel pans donated

─ “back in the day they used to be a force to be reckoned with” – Min. Norton

By Kipenie Jordan

DPI, Guyana, Friday, May 24, 2019

Students of the Tutorial High School today received a gift of steel pans from the Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr George Norton for the purpose of reviving the school’s music class.

The presentation was met with a rendition of beautiful melodies and was well attended by all students and the staff the school.

Acting Headmaster of Tutorial High, David Sam expressed satisfaction with receiving steel pans for the students. He said it will help to create well-rounded individuals for society after secondary school life.

Presentation of Steel Pans to Tutorial High School. [in the photo from left] Headmaster (ag) of Tutorial High School, David Sam, Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr George Norton and teachers of Tutorial High.

Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr George Norton.

Headmaster (ag) of Tutorial High School, David Sam.

Steel Pan rendition at Tutorial High School, Woolford Avenue.

Show me how you play: Minister Norton pays attention to notes being played.

Playing to the tune: Steel Pan man in action.

“We don’t want to produce bookworms if I can say that, and so we encourage our children to get involved in activities out of the classroom.”

Sam said it is his wish to restore the school’s choir since there was one prior to him taking office in previous years.

Social Cohesion Minister, with responsibility for Culture, Dr. George Norton said he wants to be a part of restoring Tutorial High to its former glory, “back in the day they used to be a force to be reckoned with.”

“I think for too long, the whole country, the school population, have focused too much on passing subjects, in getting this 16, 17, 18, 19 subjects, and we’re neglecting the sports. I want to see when, the University of Guyana is going to ask for your background in sporting activities, to enhance your chances for getting into a course.”

The steel pan is the only musical instrument to be invented in the last 100 years.

Images: Marceano Narine