The Walla Walla University Steel Band will perform with Ray Holman, steel pan arranger, composer, and performer, at the Gesa Power House Theater on Sunday, May 7, at 7 p.m.

Holman hails from Trinidad and Tobago. Throughout his career, he has challenged the norms of steel drum arrangements by incorporating European classical music into his arrangements. He has played steel drums professionally since the age of 13 and has become one of the most respected and sought-after steel band performers and arrangers in the world. He was awarded the Hummingbird Silver Medal of Merit by the government of Trinidad and Tobago in 1993 for his significant contributions to the culture of his nation.

The WWU Steel Band was formed in 2002 and has performed annually at the Gesa Power House Theater since 2013. The group, which has toured across the United States, is directed by Brandon Beck, associate professor of music.

Ticket prices for the May 7 performance range from $15 to $20 and are available online or by calling the Gesa Power House Theater box office at (509) 529-6500. Proceeds from the concert support the WWU Steel Band.

Posted May 1, 2017