Golden Hands arranger and pannist Vanessa Headley-Brewster has vivid memories of her late mother, Franka Hills-Headley, coming home from classes at the UWI when she, Headley-Brewster was just four years old. Her mother was dedicated to her craft and would practice on an old, rusty pan.

While she doesn’t remember every detail, one of the songs her mother frequently played was Magic Flute, which Headley-Brewster learnt by ear. It was then her mother recognised her daughter's natural talent for music: specifically, the steel pan.

“I was born into a musical family: my mom and dad were musicians. It’s natural to me, I can’t imagine life without it. That may sound like an exaggeration, but music is literally my life,” she told WMN.

Headley-Brewster holds a bachelor’s degree in music from the UWI, where she graduated with honours, as well as a master’s in music psychology from the University of Sheffield in London.

She credits her mother for instilling in her a deep love for the pan. Hills-Headley, who died on August 1, 2024, was the driving force behind Golden Hands, the steel orchestra she founded in 1993. The aim of the registered non-profit organisation was to come up with a teaching model that would solidify the steelpan as a musical instrument, and to help develop the creativity of children interested in playing the instrument.

“My mother was the foundation of my journey and passion for the pan. Her dedication to the instrument, commitment to nurturing its artistry, and focus on music education were central to who I am today.”

[caption id="attachment_1135010" align="alignnone" width="683"] Vanessa Alexandra Headley-Brewster describes Golden Hands as a space that empowers young people through music. -[/caption]

Golden Hands, which Headley-Brewster describes as a space that empowers young people through music, has become a symbol of artistic excellence in the community.

“On our 30th anniversary, we adopted the descriptor ‘Steelpan Conservatory,'" reflecting the organisation’s growth into a conservatory that emphasises education, mentorship, and performance within a disciplined environment.

Headley-Brewster grew up in San Fernando and says the rich cultural heritage and the resilient spirit of the south’s people have shaped the identity of Golden Hands.

“We take great pride in representing San Fernando on every stage we perform.”

As an arranger, she sees her role as a storyteller of music.

“An arranger adapts a piece of music for the steel orchestra, ensuring each section of the band contributes to a cohesive and dynamic sound,” she explained.

“We create harmonies, rhythmic patterns, and transitions that highlight the beauty and versatility of the pan.”

She stressed that being an arranger requires both a deep understanding of music and the ability to connect with the players, bringing the music to life through interpretation.

Her journey into arranging began with Golden Hands. Encouraged to experiment with music from a young age, Headley-Brewster was inspired by the power of well-arrange