The steel pan community and the nation mourn the loss of Vincent “Captain” Freeland, a legendary steel pan musician, tuner, teacher, and cultural ambassador.
Freeland’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew him, but his legacy will continue to inspire and uplift generations to come.
With a career spanning decades, Freeland was a household name in Antigua and Barbuda, renowned for his exceptional skill as a steel pan tuner, musician, and teacher.
His love affair with steel pan music began with his champion band, Rising Sun, from Piggott Village, where he honed his craft and developed a passion that would stay with him throughout his life.
Freeland’s impact on the steel pan fraternity was immense. He built pans, taught countless individuals to play, and shared his expertise with schools, churches, and the government’s cultural division.
His teaching style was unique, demanding discipline and perfection from his students.
When we are playing in the hotels, he would often call out chords in sequence, and with a simple “let’s go, let’s go,” the band would launch into a flawless performance of a new song, without rehearsal.
As a performer, Freeland was a star of the show. His steel band entertained tourists and locals alike in hotels, on cruise ships, and at the popular Kensington Restaurant, where his midday performances were a staple. He also sold recorded pan music
on cassettes and miniature steel band souvenirs, helping to promote the island’s rich cultural heritage. Vincent would make and tuned miniature stealpans in abundance for vendors and retailers.
Freeland’s love for gospel music was evident in his work with church groups, teaching Christians to play steel pan renditions of their favorite hymns.
His ear for music was unparalleled, and he would often stop a performance to adjust a single note, ensuring that the sound was perfect.
DW Anthony Smith, a former student and band member, remembers Freeland fondly: “It was an honor learning and playing with Vincent. Piggott and Potters are better culturally because of him.
I extend my condolences to his family and band
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Deepest sympathy 🙏🏿