Upcoming Events
Caribbean Christmas Experience
presented by Impact Island & Ocala Steel Orchestra
Join Ocala Steel Orchestra’s mission to empower all individuals, regardless of their socioeconomic background, through FREE steelpan & percussion education, creating “A NEW SOUND” for “A BRIGHTER COMMUNITY.”
Give the gift of a donation to OSO here
Event Details:
- Date: Sun, December 15th, 2024
- Time: 1:00-4:00 PM
- Location: 1760 SE 58TH AVE, Ocala FL 34480
About the event:
Experience the magic of a Caribbean Christmas like never before in Ocala! This one-of-a-kind holiday celebration is a fundraiser to support the Ocala Steel Orchestra’s free steelpan programs, bringing the joy and rhythm of the Caribbean to our community.
Join us for an unforgettable evening featuring mouthwatering, authentic Caribbean cuisine by Impact Island—explore their offerings by clicking here
Enjoy a vibrant live performance by the Ocala Steel Orchestra, conducted by Sean Thomas and featuring talented musicians including Neal West, Rhonda Gonsalves, Cynthia Mikell, Chrissy West, Oswald Charles, Sasha West, Will Scott, Carol Jones, Leona Maxwell, and Marlene Cooper.
Celebrate the holidays Caribbean-style with great music, food, and community!
Give the gift of a donation to OSO here
A Taste of Trinidad Carnival
Fifth OSO Fundraiser
CANCELLED
Past Events
International Blues Music Day Ocala - Fourth OSO Fundraiser
Get ready to celebrate 1 unfogetable night of soul-stirring blues music with incredible performers! This is a FREE event brought to you by OSO. However, be sure to secure your seat early by clicking HERE
Stay tuned for the artist line up!
The second annual International Blues Music Day Ocala, is presented by Ocala Steel Orchestra Inc. a 501(c)(3) organization to raise funds for purchasing steelpan instruments and establishing a free music program for all. (IBMDO) is an annual event that celebrates the rich culture and diversity of blues music while also supporting local music education.
Attendees can expect a lineup of exceptional blues musicians, both local talents and renowned artists from around the world. From powerful vocals to electrifying guitar solos, every performance will showcase the rich heritage and diverse styles within the blues genre. Whether you’re a long-time blues enthusiast or new to the scene, you’re bound to be captivated by the raw emotion and infectious rhythms that permeate the air.
Proceeds from the eventl benefit the Ocala Steel Orchestra Inc, a 501(c)(3) organization with a mission to empower individuals from all backgrounds with the opportunity to learn and appreciate the art of steel pan and percussion music, fostering creativity, self-expression, and community building.
By supporting this event, attendees are not only enjoying a day of great blues music, but also helping to promote cultural awareness and education in the community.
Steelpan Evolution Workshop with Sean Thomas Third OSO Fundraiser
Event Details:
- Date: Sat, July 6th, 2024
- Time: 4:30 PM
- Location: Lillian F. Bryant Community Center, 2200 NW 17th Pl, Ocala, FL 34475
- This event is FREE. However, to ensure that you have a seat, we advise you to reserve your seat by clicking HERE.
During this workshop, participants can expect to dive deep into the rich history and evolution of the steel pan instrument ranging from the pots and pans, tamboo bamboo, biscuit cans, sticks/mallets to the pioneers. Sean Thomas, a renowned expert in the field, will guide attendees through the captivating story of how the steel pan originated in Trinidad and Tobago and evolved into the incredible musical instrument it is today.
Through engaging discussions, demonstrations, and interactive sessions, participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the steel pan’s cultural significance, its technical aspects, and the various playing techniques employed. Whether you are a seasoned musician or simply an avid music enthusiast, this workshop offers a unique opportunity to explore the captivating world of steel pan music.
In addition to the educational aspect, attendees will also have the chance to experience the enchanting sounds of the steel pan firsthand.
International Jazz, Art & Poetry Festival-Tribute to Barry Harris Ocala Second OSO Fundraiser
Event Details:
- Date: Tuesday, April 30, 2024
- Time: 6:00 PM
- Location: Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, 1821 NW 21st Ave, Ocala, FL 34475
- Click HERE to Reserve your seat:
Welcome to the International Jazz, Art & Poetry Festival Ocala – Tribute to Barry Harris! The second installment of OSO’s International Jazz, Art & Poetry Festival will honor one of America’s greatest educators, Barry Harris, known as the keeper of the flame. This event marks the second fundraising effort in 2024 by Ocala Steel Orchestra, a 501(c)(3) organization. Funds raised from the events will support our ongoing mission to provide free music literacy, acquire new instruments, and sustain our programs at the Lillian Bryant F. Community Center in Ocala, FL.
About Barry Harris:
Barry Harris, known as the keeper of the flame, was a pianist who meticulously preserved the language of bebop throughout his seven-decade career as a brilliant performer and influential teacher. Emerging from Detroit’s modern jazz explosion in the 1940s and ’50s, Harris remained indefatigable into his early 90s. He led weekly workshops in New York, performed in clubs and concert halls, and traveled the world to teach and spread the gospel of bebop — the post-war style that became the lingua franca of jazz.
To learn more about Barry Harris click here. Click here to visit the Barry Harris Institute of Jazz.
International Jazz, Art & Poetry Festival Ocala Line up:
Host-Steve Billington
Howard Middle School Jazz Band
Poets: Amy Kuhns Roberts, Dezmond Wheeler, & Amira Sims
Ocala Steel Orchestra conducted by OSO Ceo, Sean Thomas
Adriel Vincent-Brown Jazz Trio
Ryoma Takenaga-bass
Esteban Castro-piano
Adriel Vincent-Brown-drums
Tribute to Barry Harris performing one of his compositions “Nascimento” with
Sean Thomas-double seconds, accompanied by Adriel Vincent-Brown Jazz Trio, OSO, & you the audience.
Art displays by local artists-TBA
For more info: call us at 352-201-3397 or email us at oso@ocalasteelorchestra.org
Live Coverage - Trinidad & Tobago National Steel Pan Panorama Finals
First OSO Fundraiser
Step into the rhythm of the Caribbean and join Ocala Steel Orchestra at our first fundraiser event for 2024, the “Live Coverage of Trinidad & Tobago National Steel Pan Panorama Finals.” Immerse yourself in the captivating sounds of steel pan music as we bring the vibrant culture of Trinidad and Tobago to Ocala, FL.
Experience the thrill of the Panorama Finals like never before, with live coverage that transports you straight to the heart of the action. Our event promises an unforgettable evening filled with the infectious beats of steel pan, vibrant colors, and the camaraderie of a community coming together.
Event Details:
- Date: Saturday, February 10, 2024
- Time: 6:00 PM
- Location: Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, 1821 NW 21st Ave, Ocala, FL 34475
- Click HERE to Reserve your seat with a donation
Holiday Music Brunch Gala - OSO Fundraiser
Join Us for a Heartwarming Celebration at the Holiday Music Brunch Gala!
Embrace the spirit of the holiday season with the Ocala Steel Orchestra at our inaugural fundraising gala event. The Holiday Music Brunch Gala promises an enchanting afternoon filled with music, joy, and community togetherness.
Event Details:
- Date: Sunday, December 17, 2023
- Time: 11:30 AM – 1:30 PM
- Location: Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place, 1821 NW 21st Ave, Ocala, FL 34475
- Click HERE to Reserve your seat with
A Musical Feast for the Soul: Our guests will be serenaded by the Ocala Steel Orchestra, the SeanTMusic Global Jazz Trio. Join Sean Thomas on drums, Howard Wapner on keyboards, and Gabi Shapiro on bass as they enchant the audience with jazzy Christmas standards. Immerse yourself in the soulful rhythms and festive melodies that will undoubtedly set the perfect mood for a joyous celebration!
Inspiring Words and Community Stars: We are honored to welcome guest speaker Ruth Ford Reed, whose dedication to our community is truly inspiring. Special guest Mary Sue Rich will grace us with her presence, and we are delighted to have her support.
A Culinary Delight: Indulge in a delectable feast provided by Big Lee’s – Serious About BBQ. Turkey giveaways by Bravo Supermarket Ocala.
Your Contribution Matters: To participate in this delightful celebration, guests are kindly requested to contribute $35, knowing that your generosity will directly support our mission. This event is our final fundraiser for 2023, and it’s a crucial step in raising the necessary funds for acquiring new instruments and expanding our life-changing programs.
The Holiday Music Brunch Gala is a heartfelt endeavor to bring our community together, share the joy of music, and ensure that the Ocala Steel Orchestra continues to inspire and empower individuals through music education.
Secure Your Seat at This Unforgettable Event Here. For Reservations and Inquiries, Contact OSO at 352-201-3397 or email us at oso@ocalasteelorchestra.org.
Don’t miss this opportunity to join hands in making a difference while enjoying an unforgettable musical journey. Your presence and contribution will have a lasting impact on the lives of aspiring musicians in our community.
A Taste of Trinidad Carnival-OSO Give4Marion Fundraiser
GET READY! Join our mission to empower all individuals, regardless of their socioeconomic background, through FREE steelpan & percussion education, creating “A NEW SOUND” for “A BRIGHTER COMMUNITY.”
Here are three ways to DONATE:
1. DONATE NOW on our website here
2. Share our GIVE4MARION site with friends and on your social media pages to encourage others to DONATE on September 19-20, 2023, from 10:00 AM on September 19 to 7:00 PM on September 20. Click here
3. Celebrate with us on GIVE4MARION, Tuesday, Sept 19th, at 6:00 PM for the “A Taste of Trinidad Carnival-OSO Fundraiser” event at the Mary Sue Rich Community Center. Get your tickets here
Immerse yourself in the vibrant spirit of a “Taste of Trinidad Carnival” event, hosted by the Ocala Steel Orchestra as part of the Ocala Steel Orchestra Give4Marion Fundraiser! This engaging and family-friendly event, which takes place on Tuesday, September 19th, at 6pm, marks a celebration of culture, music, and community. Starting at 6 PM, attendees of all ages are invited to partake in an evening of excitement, complete with complimentary giveaways and a free steelpan movie “PANOMUNDO” screening. The festivities reach a crescendo with an exhilarating drum circle, hosted by Robin Lee Paulson, where you can join in the rhythmic beats and feel the pulse of the steelpan music.
As you enjoy this unforgettable evening, it’s worth knowing that your participation supports a meaningful cause. The funds raised during this event will be channeled towards essential needs such as instruments, program development, equipment, and venue rent. By attending and contributing to the “Taste of Trinidad Carnival,” you’re contributing to the growth and sustainability of the Ocala Steel Orchestra’s mission to enrich lives through music education and community engagement.
Mark your calendar for September 19th, and join us for an event that not only promises joy and entertainment but also fosters a sense of unity and shared purpose. Let’s come together to experience the vibrant flavors of Trinidad Carnival and make a lasting impact on the Ocala Steel Orchestra’s journey.
We can’t wait to celebrate with you!
BRING THE ENTIRE FAMILY TO ENJOY A GREAT STEELPAN MOVIE WITH US!
BRING YOUR DRUM & COME JAM WITH US!
