Panama Cotton Tea Towel: The Sounds of Trinidad & Tobago

This fun, boldly coloured tea towel showcases a beach scene with signposts featuring the music and instruments created and developed in the Caribbean twin isles country of Trinidad & Tobago (T&T). Trinidad & Tobago boasts a rich musical heritage, originating with the Tamboo-bamboo, a percussion ensemble using bamboo. This led to the creation of the Steelpan, our national instrument, known around the world. The Dhantal, an East Indian metal rod instrument, added diversity. Kaiso, an early Afro-Trinidadian music genre, evolved into calypso, characterized by witty, socially conscious lyrics. Soca, a blend of calypso and Indian rhythms, emerged in the 1970s, emphasizing danceable beats. These musical forms and instruments highlight the islands’ cultural fusion, creativity, and resilience, significantly impacting global music.