Tropical rhythms take center stage at SEMO’s Fall Steel Drum concert

On the evening of Nov. 22, the sounds of steel drums echoed through SEMO’s Academic Hall as the student steel drum band took the stage for their fall concert.

Directed by Shane Mizicko, the performance highlighted the impressive talent and energy of the student musicians, who brought a tropical atmosphere through their vibrant tunes. Special guest Daron Roberts also joined the ensemble, contributing his musical expertise to the evening’s performance.

Mizicko said Roberts would be joining the show after the band played the first few songs and offered a brief introduction.

“Our guest tonight actually comes from Trinidad and Tobago, by way of Norfolk, Virginia. He’s been teaching out there, and he’s been there in Virginia for about five years,” Mizicko said.

Roberts is a percussionist, composer, educator and performer from Trinidad and Tobago. Roberts has an accomplished career including accolades like the Trinidad National Youth Award for Music and the release of his debut album, “F.A.B. 105” with his band LAC Connection.

Roberts also holds a degree in steelpan performance from Northern Illinois University and a bachelor’s degree in percussion performance from the University of Southern Mississippi. Now based in Norfolk, Virginia, Roberts serves as the associate director for the Rhythm Project, where he continues his work in music education.

Along with Robert’s guest performance, the student steel drum band, directed by Shane Mizicko, played a mix of Caribbean tunes, including songs like “Jamaican Farewell” and “Calypso Blues.”

Mizicko, who is the Director of Percussion at SEMO, also leads the percussion ensemble, along with teaching percussion lessons, techniques for music education majors, and more.

The performance was also joined by SEMO faculty members Deborah Caldwell on trumpet and Michael Chapa on saxophone, as well as student Isaac Thorn on trombone.

Under the direction of Mizicko, and with valuable contributions from faculty and student musicians, the performance aimed to show how music has the ability to unite and inspire the community.