About Us
About Us
At the Ocala Steel Orchestra 501(c)(3), we believe in the transformative power of music, the strength of community, and the boundless potential within each individual, regardless of their background. Founded on the principles of inclusivity and creativity, we are a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching lives through the captivating rhythms of steelpan and percussion music.
Our Mission
Our mission is to empower individuals from all walks of life with the opportunity to learn and appreciate the art of steelpan and percussion music. We aim to break down barriers and provide free, accessible educational programs that foster creativity, self-expression, and community building. By sharing the joy of music, we strive to create a brighter, more harmonious world where every voice matters.
What Sets Us Apart
What makes the Ocala Steel Orchestra unique is our unwavering commitment to making music education accessible to all. We offer a wide range of programs, workshops, and performances designed to inspire, educate, and bring people together. Our team of passionate educators and musicians work tirelessly to create a welcoming space where individuals of all ages can discover their musical talents and connect with like-minded community members.
Our Impact
OSO began our journey in January 2023. During this period, we have witnessed the profound impact of music on people’s lives through our events such as the “National Steel Pan Panorama Finals Live Coverage,” “International Jazz, Art & Blues Festival,” “Steelpan Evolution Workshop,” OSO’s “Steelpan & Percussion for ALL Launch on World Steelpan Day,” and “International Blues Music Day Dunnellon.” From nurturing budding musicians to building bridges within our community, our organization continues to make a difference. Through our free programs, we empower individuals to express themselves, embrace diversity, and find their place in the world of music.
Join Our Journey
We invite you to join us on our mission to create a brighter, more harmonious community through the universal language of music. Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a budding artist, or someone seeking to make a positive impact, there’s a place for you at the Ocala Steel Orchestra 501(c)(3). Together, we can create beautiful melodies and lasting connections.
Explore our website to learn more about our programs, upcoming events, and how you can get involved. Together, let’s make music and build a stronger, more inclusive community.
Our Board
Sean Thomas
CEO & Musical Director
Born and raised in Trinidad & Tobago, Sean grew up immersed in the rich tradition of steelpan music, performing in his father’s group, Moods Steel Orchestra. He has since become an internationally recognized musician, educator, and advocate for Caribbean music and culture.
Sean serves as President of the Jazz Alliance of Trinidad & Tobago and is the author of the first-ever published Calypso Real Book, available on Amazon. He is also the creator and host of the Ocala Arts & Entertainment Podcast, where he produced and performed the show’s original steelpan-themed song, Swing Swing Blues.
As CEO of SeanTMusic Global, Sean leads a variety of community-based programs:
- Drum Therapy in Motion – interactive music education for seniors in assisted living
- Reading2Motion – a fun, musical literacy experience for children and families at libraries and schools. More here: seantmusicglobal.com
Sean is also the founder and educator behind Pan Jazz Community, where he blends steelpan traditions with jazz improvisation to inspire the next generation of musicians.
Locally, Sean performs weekly as a steelpan soloist every Tuesday at the Hilton Garden Inn in Ocala Downtown and as a jazz drummer with the Oak Trio every Wednesday at Hotel Eleo in Gainesville, FL.
Now based in Ocala, Florida, Sean Thomas is deeply committed to using music as a tool for cultural expression, education, and community building—making him a driving force behind the growth of Ocala Steel Orchestra and the wider arts scene in Central Florida.
Thomas's Foundation
Mrs. Rufina Thomas-Thompson, one of the pioneering women to play a steelpan tune, made history in 1946 when she performed ‘Symphony of Love’ on the ping-pong at a concert held at the Rex Cinema in Arouca.”
Mr. Leroy Thomas, ace pan tuner of Trinidad and Tobago, in action tuning one of his steelpans in 1993
Mr. Kenrick Thomas, author of the book “PANRIGA”. Tacarigua’s contribution to the Evolution of the Steelband Phenomenon in Trinidad and Tobago
Elgin Carelock
Treasurer
Introducing Elgin Carelock, our new Treasurer for the Ocala Steel Orchestra Inc.!
Elgin Carelock is an author, business strategist, educator, leadership coach, and mentor, with a primary focus on helping individuals reach their fullest potential personally and professionally.
Elgin is the founder and Chief Strategist of re-View Business Strategies Inc. (RBS). He is currently a member of several boards such as Kut Different, Greater Ocala Community Development Corporation, West Ocala Community Redevelopment Advisory Board, West Ocala Brownfield Advisory Board, Renasant Bank Advisory Board, Forever Young Academy Board, and Ocala Housing Authority PCC Board.
We’re excited to have him on our team and can’t wait to see what great things we can accomplish together!
Dr. Stella H. Nemuseso
Secretary
The Ocala Steel Orchestra, a 501(c)(3) organization, is proud to introduce our new Secretary, Dr. Stella H. Nemuseso.
Dr. Stella H. Nemuseso, a board-certified Lifestyle Alternative Doctor, Doctor of Physical Therapy, and retired university professor, is committed to guiding individuals toward healthier and happier lives. Her unique approach integrates psychology and neuroscience with lifestyle medicine to improve her patients’ quality of life. Additionally, as an author, Dr. Nemuseso is actively involved in technology innovations, project management, and community engagement, showcasing her versatility and dedication as a professional.
OSO is thrilled to welcome
Dr. Stella H. Nemuseso to our board!
Chrissy West
Assistant Musical Director
We are proud to introduce our new Assistant Musical Director,
Chrissy West!
Chrissy joined OSO in March 2024 and has since performed at notable OSO events, including the Steelpan Innovation Workshop, International Jazz Day Festival, and the International Blues Day Festival in Ocala. With her Trinidadian heritage, Chrissy has a deep passion for island music, particularly soca and calypso. She also brings 10 years of experience as a violist in traditional string orchestras and takes pride in her versatile musical abilities.
Chrissy graduated from Stony Brook University with a bachelor’s degree in Journalism and a minor in Spanish Language and Literature. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Public Administration at Florida State University, along with a certificate in Emergency Management and Homeland Security.
Chrissy is committed to fostering musical excellence and creating memorable performances that bring people together through the joy of music. She brings a cheerful spirit, musical expertise, and a sense of humor to every practice. In her free time, Chrissy enjoys reading, spending time outdoors, and exploring art.
OSO is thrilled to welcome Chrissy West to our team!
Ruth Ford Reed
Honorary Board Member
Introducing our Honorary Board Member, Ms. Ruth Ford Reed!
Ruth Ford Reed is a native of West Ocala, FL, and the Founder & President of the Neighborhood Citizens of Northwest Ocala, established in 1996. This nonprofit organization focuses on environmental protection.
OSO is thrilled to welcome Ms. Ruth Reed to our board!
Julie Mancini
Board of Directors Member
Introducing Julie Mancini, Board of Directors member!
Julie is the owner of Julie Mancini Photography. With 22 years of teaching high school English and journalism and four years as executive director of the Dunnellon Chamber, Julie is now following her passion and has been a full-time photographer since July 2021.
We’re excited to have Julie on our team and can’t wait to see what great things we can accomplish together!
Charles Eady
Board of Directors Member
Introducing our new Board of Directors Member, Mr Charles Eady!
Charles Eady a contemporary artist and author use art to examine long-held beliefs about the south. His paintings open dialogues into little-known facts about southern history. His emphasis for the past decade has been on the lives of those living in the South before the Civil War. He has a unique artistic language for layering art into history.
OSO is thrilled to welcome Mr. Charles Eady to our board!
Keith Katon
Board of Directors Member
Introducing Keith Caton, Board of Directors Member!
Keith is a true renaissance man, serving as CEO of Rainbow Springs Realty Group and owner of the Old School Studio.
Not only that, he is also a talented musician who leads his own Keith Caton Blues Band as a guitarist and vocalist.
Based in Dunnellon FL, Keith’s commitment to music and community involvement make him a valuable asset to the Ocala Steel Orchestra Inc.
We’re excited to have him on our team and can’t wait to see what great things we can accomplish together!