Panneubean Steel
Raised on Cape Cod, Musician/Artist Jefferey Clayton (Music Director, Music Educator),
founded PanNeubean Steel to share his passion for music. His love-passion for his
Jamaican heritage and the quality of PanNeubean Steel is evident through his
enthusiasm, initiative and dedication to professionalism. Showcasing the Steelpan's
versatility in Caribbean (reggae, soca, calypso), Afro-Caribbean, Contemporary, Jazz,
Fusion and Classical music styles is the essence of PanNeubean Steel.
Clayton's musical,steelpan, adventure began when he enlisted
into the United States Army as a trumpet player. This is
where he was first featured as a trumpet player and soon
highlighted as a steelpannist. After three active years in the
military he obtained a Bachelors of Arts degree in Sociology
from the University of Massachusetts @ Amherst, where he
concentrated on social equality in hope of providing greater
opportunity for those who are less fortunate. Clayon then
obtained a Masters Degree in Music Education from the
New England Conservatory of Music because he felt that all
children should be provided with the chance to express
themselves musically. (Clayton is Massachusetts Music
Teacher Certified/k-12.) As a young child he suffered
hearing loss. When he regained his hearing, music became his
creative outlet. With music Clayton found his voice and many
opportunities. Music has opened many doors, allowing him to
view and speak of the world with broader awareness.
The Steelpan is Clayton's chosen instrument because of its historic traditions and its
uniqueness. The Steelpan originated from the people of Trinidad and Tobago. Originally
hand-made from discarded oil drums left by the U.S. Navy, many of today's Steelpans are
made for professional use. The Steelpan has become a symbol. It represents the
overcoming of social oppression of slavery and government. Today the Steelpan sings of
vocal freedom
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Clayton has had the privilege of performing with Calypsonian, Reggae and Soca Legends:
Shadow, The Mighty King Barron, The Mighty Duke, Ronnie McIntosh, Iwer
George, Rupee, Denise Belfon, Sparrow and Johnny King.
He has shared the stage with: Stephen Marley, Max Roach, The Duke Ellington Band
and Chris Vadala. He has also traveled as a Music Ambassador to Germany and the
Netherlands (Holland) and performed for the President of the United States, Vice
President, Colin Powell, Nets, Bruins, Yankee's and World Cup Games.
Most Recently PanNeubean Steel shared the stage with Bruce Hornsby and was the
concert opener for Kenny Chesney and Jimmy Buffet at the Tweeter Center, Boston, MA.
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PanNeubean Steel is committed to the music and the continued awareness and versatility of
the Steelpan and its ability to provide "...An Oasis of Musical Moods...". PanNeubean
Steel hopes that it's energetic, and positive attitude, empathy, esteem-enhancing
approach, and professionalism serve as a model for all adults and children. Maintaining a
high standard of musical and personal excellence is the key to providing an unforgettable
fun and entertaining event.
