ATTIBA WILLIMS
1991 Trinidad
Pan Player

As this year begin [1996], it is fitting to start with one of the youngest, yet most active pannist today.

Attiba now age 5 years, started to play at the age of 1 year, yes one year. To date, he has made over 100 appearances! His first was at age 2, at the Adventist Church, San Fernando.

His first national performance was at the Dimache Gras [show] where he played the National Anthem.

He is the last of eight children and started his early playing in church.

His family, member[s] of which the others are Leandra, Luanna, Nubia, Bayette, Tazrel and Ato; started their own family band and played at crusades and concerts.

At first Attiba used to look on at his elder brothers and sisters; but soon after used to follow [their playing] and [then] soon started to play the pan [for himself].

[Al]though he has learnt to read music, he hardly read the English Language from his text book at school, [until] up to a year ago.

He has learnt to play religious songs and calypsos; though for the latter, his parents were a bit concerned at first, since their religious upbringing pointed them away from calypsos. Later on his skill was appreciated and the less spicy ones he was allowed to play.

Attiba represents the spirit of young Trinidadian and Tobagonians embracing the natural instrument and has shown the skill and talent that lies in the youth of the Nation.

Attiba is able to play on pan such tunes as Hill Street Blues, Chariots of Fire, The Hammer, Memories, Blessed Assurance, Old Time Days [and] Amazing Grace.

Attiba has graced all audiences wherever he has played, whether be it at Pan Ramajay, or [as] a guest at Naparima Bowl or Palms Club.

Surely a pannist of tomorrow. Attiba Williams age five years.

© 1997 Gideon Maxime: Pg 226; PAN THROUGH THE YEARS (1952 - 1996)

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© 1997: tobagojo@gmail.com - 19971210 - 1m20071228 - 2m20140615
Historic Update: 04 December 1999; Last Update: 19 July 2014 05:40:00 TT
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