25th Annual Inside Out Steelband Festival Program

Born and raised in the twin-island Republic of Trinidad & Tobago, Josanne Francis is an internationally known steelpan performer and music educator. Her music delivers that special ‘extra’ that separates her from even the greats, and catapults listeners into a unique and exceptional place.

With hands that seem to float like the wings of a butterfly with a ‘wand-like’ touch, her music is not devoid of power when needed. Ms. Francis’ music blends together and draws influences from traditional Calypso music, Jazz, Indian, Funk, Rock and Classical music- a unique mix which is not typical for the instrument.

Josanne has performed at venues such as the Kennedy Center, Carnegie Hall, and Strathmore Music Center; and has appeared as a guest artist at festivals and universities across the United States and internationally, including the San Juan Conservatory of Music, San Juan Puerto Rico and the Port-au-Prince International Jazz Festival, Haiti.

Josanne served as one of 6 Artists in Residence at Strathmore for the 2017-2018 season. She currently runs her very own educational steelpan program Steel on Wheels. 

Blue Iron Percussion is dedicated to building community through music. Diana Loomer and Morgan Tao started out by playing in community ensembles together, and they realized how great of an impact those ensembles had on their lives. Their backgrounds include percussion traditions from all over the world such as steel drums, Brazilian samba, African drumming & xylophone, and classical Western percussion.