The steelpan calls to mind salty sea breezes, sand, and sun, but under Josanne Francis’ skilled hand, it can do so much more. This celebrated musician’s “wand-like” touch conjures traditional calypso music mixed with funk, rock, and classical melodies. It’s steelpan like you’ve never heard it before!

Born and raised in the twin-island Republic of Trinidad & Tobago, Francis is an internationally known steelpan performer and music educator. Francis has performed on such prestigious stages as Carnegie Hall and the San Juan Conservatory of Music and serves as the Artistic Director of the Cultural Academy for Excellence. She’s also an alumnus of Strathmore’s Artist in Residence program, and we’re proud to welcome her back!