Steel Sensation Youth Steel Orchestra — 2nd Place (Tie), CLACC-C Youth Pan Fest 2025
About Us
Our Story & Legacy
Steel Sensation Steel Orchestra Corporation is a nonprofit based in Queens, New York, dedicated to youth development, cultural enrichment, and preserving the legacy of the steelpan — an instrument invented in Trinidad and Tobago, treasured across the Caribbean, and now celebrated worldwide.
Founded in 1996 by Trinidadian-born drummer Ian Japsi, Steel Sensation began as a family-led steel band and quickly became a staple in New York’s Caribbean music community. Known for electrifying performances at festivals, private events, and national television appearances, the band built a reputation for excellence and cultural pride.
In 2024, Ian, together with his sons Tristan and Christan Japsi and Berdine Trish Japsi, established Steel Sensation Steel Orchestra Corporation as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. The organization now provides structured steelpan music education, mentorship, and cultural outreach across New York City, with a special focus on youth development and creating safe spaces for the next generation of pannists.
Celebrating Caribbean culture, inspiring youth, and building community through the power of steelpan — invented in Trinidad & Tobago and now played worldwide.
Founders & Leaders
Ian Japsi – Founder, Drummer & President
Tristan Japsi – Co-Founder, Vice President, Pannist & Musical Arranger
Tristan Japsi – Co-Founder, Vice President, Pannist & Musical Arranger
Ian, a Trinidadian-born drummer and percussionist, founded Steel Sensation in 1996. With nearly three decades of experience performing and teaching, he has become a cornerstone of New York’s Caribbean music community. Ian’s leadership ensures the preservation of Trinidad and Tobago’s steelpan legacy while fostering opportunities for youth
Ian, a Trinidadian-born drummer and percussionist, founded Steel Sensation in 1996. With nearly three decades of experience performing and teaching, he has become a cornerstone of New York’s Caribbean music community. Ian’s leadership ensures the preservation of Trinidad and Tobago’s steelpan legacy while fostering opportunities for youth development, mentorship, and cultural pride. His vision laid the foundation for Steel Sensation’s transformation into a nonprofit serving the wider community.
Tristan Japsi – Co-Founder, Vice President, Pannist & Musical Arranger
Tristan Japsi – Co-Founder, Vice President, Pannist & Musical Arranger
Tristan Japsi – Co-Founder, Vice President, Pannist & Musical Arranger
Tristan serves as Musical Arranger and Director, guiding the orchestra through rehearsals, performances, and Panorama competitions. His innovative arrangements and commitment to excellence inspire discipline, creativity, and teamwork in young pannists. With extensive experience in cultural performances across New York, Tristan brings arti
Tristan serves as Musical Arranger and Director, guiding the orchestra through rehearsals, performances, and Panorama competitions. His innovative arrangements and commitment to excellence inspire discipline, creativity, and teamwork in young pannists. With extensive experience in cultural performances across New York, Tristan brings artistic leadership that connects tradition with modern expression, helping Steel Sensation grow as both a musical and educational force.
Christan Japsi – Co-Founder, Treasurer, Pannist & Youth Band Arranger
Berdine Trish Japsi – Co-Founder, Secretary & Organizational Development and Change Consultant
Berdine Trish Japsi – Co-Founder, Secretary & Organizational Development and Change Consultant
Christan directs the Youth Orchestra, mentoring young pannists in rehearsals, competitions, and showcases. His guidance helps students grow musically and personally while celebrating Caribbean culture. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Queens College, bringing leadership and analytical skills that strengthen both the nonprofit’s governance and its community impact.
Berdine Trish Japsi – Co-Founder, Secretary & Organizational Development and Change Consultant
Berdine Trish Japsi – Co-Founder, Secretary & Organizational Development and Change Consultant
Berdine Trish Japsi – Co-Founder, Secretary & Organizational Development and Change Consultant
Berdine played a pivotal role in establishing Steel Sensation as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, leading the application process, bylaws, and strategic planning. As Board Secretary, she ensures strong governance, organizational development, and sustainable growth. Berdine holds a Master of Arts in Organizational Development and Change, and she app
Berdine played a pivotal role in establishing Steel Sensation as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, leading the application process, bylaws, and strategic planning. As Board Secretary, she ensures strong governance, organizational development, and sustainable growth. Berdine holds a Master of Arts in Organizational Development and Change, and she applies her expertise in leadership and systems thinking to strengthen the orchestra’s mission of youth empowerment and cultural preservation.