Album Notes

When asked, how long he has been playing the steel drums or “pan” as it is sometimes called Victor Provost’s typical facetious response is “longer than I have not”.

Provost began his musical journey at the age of 11. Born and raised in the US Virgin Islands, Provost’s interest and subsequent love affair with the steel drums began at the St. John School of the Arts. There, he became a member of the youth steel pan orchestra, Steel Unlimited II, and under the guidance of Mr. Rudy Wells, was able to develop, hone and share his musical gift.

Steel Unlimited dissolved in 1995, and after much encouragement by family, friends and teachers, Provost began his solo career. His first “gig” was a daily performance, after school outside a local store. That first solo performance led to more opportunities at various venues including the once Rockefeller owned Caneel Bay Resort and Reichhold Center for the Arts.

While Provost was exposed to a plethora of music including Jazz, Blues, Soul, Classical and of course, Calypso, his love for Jazz proved undeniable when he was personally invited to the Umbria Jazz Festival in 1999. The festival also featured performers such as Milt Jackson, Jimmy Smith, Herbie Hancock and Branford Marsalis.

During his residency in Pittsburgh, Provost became well known among Jazz enthusiasts and musicians alike. He performed at many local clubs including the World Famous Crawford Grill, “home-base” to such Jazz greats as George Benson and Stanley Turntine. Having performed in over 10 countries spanning both North America and Europe, he has also toured with the award winning Real Silk Band, and 21st Century Band (Featuring Ron Blake and Dion Parson) and recorded with artists such as Ken Karsh, James Johnson III, Dwayne Dolphin, Tim Adams and Roger Humphries.

Provost most recently managed the Urban Arts Center, a community arts program based in Portsmouth, VA. He also instructed and arranged for the center’s steel band orchestra.

Provost’s diverse musical background has allowed him to develop a unique voice on his instrument of choice. He weaves melodic and harmonic phrases together during improvisations, often reflecting nuances of horn or piano lines. His genuinely authentic approach to Caribbean music and intellectual approach to all other genres makes him one of the most highly sought after pan players in the region.

-Biography written by The Bonelli Group, LLC