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From picking up the steelpan at five to leading his school to a national Panorama final as a first-time arranger, Amari Douglas is steadily carving out his place among Tobago’s emerging young musicians. The 18-year-old has been named the 2026 recipient of the Nevin Roach Award for Excellence in Steelpan, becoming the fifth Bishop’s High School, Tobago, graduate to receive the honour.
Douglas was presented with a trophy and cash grant during the school’s graduation ceremony at Shaw Park Cultural Complex.
Douglas said upon hearing his name announced, he felt an overwhelming sense of relief.
“All I thought about was how all the hard work I had put in finally paid off. Steelpan has been part of my life since childhood. I began playing at five and debuted at Panorama at eight with NLCB Buccooneers Steel Orchestra. I currently perform with Uptown Fascinators Steel Orchestra.”
In 2024, Douglas captured his first solo title, winning Tobago Star Quest with Michael Jackson’s Thriller. In Barbados for Carifesta XV, he lit up the arena, but one of his most significant steps emerged at Uptown Fascinators Steel Orchestra when his maiden arrangement led them to the National Junior Panorama finals this year (2026). They secured eighth place. He credits his mentor, Ojay Richards, for helping shape his development as both performer and arranger.
“I believe Amari’s evolution points to a bright future,” stated 2024 Caribbean Artistic Award winner, founder/CEO of the first online steelpan competition PanOgrama, Bishop’s alumnus and founder of the award, Nevin Roach.
“I see his drive and passion for the art form. He’s equally at home behind the steelpan and leading from in front of the band,” Roach said. “He has tremendous potential to become one of the greats, and I look forward to seeing where his journey in music takes him.”
Douglas joins previous recipients Ferai Dave, Giana Eastmond, J’Lise Johnson and Kai Caruth.
“Receiving the Nevin Roach Award is an incredible achievement,” stated Douglas. “It means a lot to be recognized for doing something I truly love. My journey is now set to continue beyond Bishop’s.”
Douglas plans to study music at the University of Trinidad and Tobago (UTT), with an ultimate ambition of earning a scholarship to Berklee College of Music. His message to younger musicians reflects his own journey: Believe in yourself and give your best effort in everything you do. Success comes through dedication, perseverance and passion.
Trinbagonian Nevin Roach is also a cultural innovator and technology professional internationally recognised for his contributions to steelpan development, education and cultural innovation across the Caribbean and beyond.
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