I am about to retire from teaching steelband in a primary school.

My Fellowship was to look at the history and current teaching of steelpan in Trinidad where it began. I became interested in the art form on an in-service teacher's course and was hooked. I continued to attend the class and ended up in charge when the teacher retired. I took early retirement from classroom teaching in 2002 and began teaching pan in several schools but now I just go into one. I still love to play in my adult band.

The many children I have been privileged to teach have enjoyed it as much as I have and I will miss them when I finally retire, but at nearly 74 I think it is time.

What I saw and learned in Trinidad widened my knowledge of the subject and gave me confidence to try out techniques I observed. I still have contacts there and felt my trip was well worthwhile. I am most grateful for the expertise and confidence I acquired as a result of my trip to Trinidad.