Sule Sampson
East Dry River
Summary
Highly experienced and versatile musician with 31 years of dedicated involvement in the music industry, seeking to leverage extensive background and expertise as an Assistant Music Director. Adept at leading diverse ensembles, arranging scores, and enhancing musical performances through meticulous direction and innovative interpretation. Demonstrated success in international performances across various genres, showcasing a profound understanding of both classical and contemporary music. Proven ability to manage complex projects, inspire creativity, and contribute to the artistic vision of distinguished organizations. Committed to fostering a dynamic and engaging musical environment while supporting the Musical Director’s objectives and enhancing overall performance quality.
Overview
31
31
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
General Musician
National Academy for the Performing Arts - National Steel Symphony Orchestra of Trinidad and Tobago - NSSO
03.2025 - Current
- Arranges different genres of music (jazz, world music, classical and folk) for sections and ensembles.
- Performs the function of Section Leader and/or Ensemble Leader at rehearsals, functions and organizes scores.
- Assists with selection of music for functions and ensembles.
- Assists with inventory and technological advances of section and/or ensemble instruments, uniforms and equipment.
- Assists other members with fostering improvisational and theoretical skills.
- Collaborated with fellow musicians for seamless performances and increased audience engagement.
- Elevated performance quality by consistently practicing and refining individual skills.
- Sought out professional development opportunities such as masterclasses or workshops to continuously improve musicianship skills.
- Improved overall band dynamics by providing constructive feedback and fostering open communication among members.
- Coordinated with conductors and composers to interpret musical scores accurately and effectively.
- Collaborated with diverse musicians to create harmonious performances for large audiences.
Assistant Musical Director/Stage-Side Music Committee Member
Massy Trinidad All Stars Steel Orchestra
01.2022 - Current
- Supporting the Musical Director in rehearsals, performances and administrative duties.
- Leading rehearsals and some performances, especially when the Musical Director is unavailable.
- Organizing and conducting sectional rehearsals and working with different sections of the orchestra to address any challenges.
- Assisting to select repertoire for concerts, the auditioning process for new orchestral members and cast for specialized roles.
Panorama Arranging Team Member - Lead by Leon ‘Smooth’ Edwards
Massy Trinidad All Stars Steel Orchestra
01.1998 - Current
- Assisting the arranger with Panorama selection, inclusive of transcribing the melody and identifying chord progression.
- Document and aurally memorize arrangement of Panorama selection for all sections and drill all sections to ensure musical precision.
Section Leader/Drill Master - Tenor Pan
Massy Trinidad All Stars Steel Orchestra
01.1998 - Current
- Mentoring new members.
- Distributing music to members.
- Drilling the section to ensure members know their parts.
- Keeping record of members’ attendance and selecting the best team for performances.
Musician II
National Steel Symphony Orchestra of Trinidad and Tobago - NSSO
01.2020 - 01.2025
- Arranges different genres of music (jazz, world music, classical and folk) for sections and ensembles.
- Performs the function of Section Leader and/or Ensemble Leader at rehearsals, functions and organizes scores.
- Assists with selection of music for functions and ensembles.
- Assists with inventory and technological advances of section and/or ensemble instruments, uniforms and equipment.
- Assists other members with fostering improvisational and theoretical skills.
- Ministry of Tourism, Culture and the Arts
Musician II
National Steel Symphony Orchestra of Trinidad and Tobago - NSSO
01.2015 - 01.2020
- Arranges different genres of music (jazz, world music, classical and folk) for sections and ensembles.
- Performs the function of Section Leader and/or Ensemble Leader at rehearsals, functions and organizes scores.
- Assists with selection of music for functions and ensembles.
- Assists with inventory and technological advances of section and/or ensemble instruments, uniforms and equipment.
- Assists other members with fostering improvisational and theoretical skills.
- Ministry of Community Development, Culture and Arts
Assistant Musical Director/Soloist - Classical Jewels XII - The Movie
Massy Trinidad All Stars Steel Orchestra
01.2019 - 01.2019
- Distributing music to all sections and drilling to ensure precision of all parts.
- Assisting Musical Director with selection of repertoire.
- Ensuring Musical Director’s artistic vision is explicitly communicated in rehearsals.
- Assisting with auditions of cast for specialized roles.
- Conducting rehearsals in the absence of the Musical Director.
Guest Conductor - Classical Jewels XI
Massy Trinidad All Stars Steel Orchestra
01.2019 - 01.2019
- Composed and distributed parts for all sections of the orchestra.
- Lead all sectionals and rehearsals.
Panorama Arranging Team Member - Lead by Leon ‘Smooth’ Edwards
Carib Dixieland Steel Orchestra
01.2011 - 01.2015
- Distributed all music for all sections of the orchestra.
- Managed section leaders and coordinated sectionals.
- Worked in tandem with the arranger to ensure the musical arrangement was clear and precise.
Musician II
National Steel Symphony Orchestra of Trinidad and Tobago - NSSO
01.2010 - 01.2015
- Arranges different genres of music (jazz, world music, classical and folk) for sections and ensembles.
- Performs the function of Section Leader and/or Ensemble Leader at rehearsals, functions and organizes scores.
- Assists with selection of music for functions and ensembles.
- Assists with inventory and technological advances of section and/or ensemble instruments, uniforms and equipment.
- Ministry of the Arts and Multiculturalism
Panorama Drill Master
Clico Sforzata Steel Orchestra
01.2010 - 01.2011
- Distributed music to all sections of the orchestra.
- Managed section leaders and coordinated sectionals.
- Worked in tandem with the arranger to ensure the artistic vision was realized through rigorous drilling to achieve clarity and precision.
Musician
National Steel Symphony
01.2007 - 01.2010
- Arranges and transcribes different genres of music (jazz, world music, classical and folk) for sections and ensembles.
- Performs the function of Section Leader and/or Ensemble Leader at rehearsals, functions and organizes scores.
- Assists with selection of music for functions and ensembles.
- Assists with inventory and technological advances of section and/or ensemble instruments, uniforms and equipment.
- Ministry of Community Development, Culture and Gender Affairs
Musician II
Trinidad and Tobago National Steel Orchestra - NSO
01.2001 - 01.2007
- Arranges different genres of music (jazz, world music, classical and folk) for sections and ensembles.
- Performs the function of Second Vice Captain at rehearsals, functions and organizes scores.
- Assists with selection of music for functions and ensembles.
- Assists with inventory and technological advances of section and/or ensemble instruments, uniforms and equipment.
- Ministry of Community Development, Culture and Gender Affairs
Pannist
Trinidad and Tobago National Steel Orchestra - NSO
01.1998 - 01.2001
- Performs the function of Section Leader and/or Ensemble Leader at rehearsals, functions and organizes scores.
- Assists with selection of music for functions and ensembles.
- Assists with inventory and technological advances of section and/or ensemble instruments, uniforms and equipment.
- Ministry of Community Development, Culture and Gender Affairs
Education
BA - Musical Arts (Special)
University of the West Indies
02-2026
Caribbean Examination Council (C.X.C) - English, Mathematics
Elders’ Classes
01-1998
English Literature, Geography, Technical Drawing, Chemistry, Physics
Trinity College Moka
01-1993
Skills
- Creative
- Analytical and Critical Thinking
- Excellent Communication
- Outstanding Interpersonal Skills
- Adaptable and Dependable
- Strong Time Management
Certification
- 2004 - Steelpan Tutors Training Programme
- 1999 - Graded Examinations in Solo Steelpan Performance Creative Arts Centre - Grade 4 Tenor pan (Merit)
- 1999 - Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music Theory - Grade 5 (Distinction)
Languages
English
Custom
- 2024
- Launch of the Trinidad and Tobago National Steelband Music Festival 2024 – Festive Ballroom, Radisson Hotel
- ‘Commemorative Concert’ in celebration of the 50th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations between Trinidad and Tobago and the People’s Republic of China – NAPA
- Diplomatic Reception in celebration of the 50th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations between Trinidad and Tobago and the People’s Republic of China – NAPA
- NAPA Presents ‘Izza Riddum’- featuring the NPO and NSSO – NAPA.
- 2023
- ‘World Steelpan Day’- Performance at Woodford Square
- ‘World Steelpan Day’- Performance at Desperadoes Panyard (Conductor)
- ‘Dance Tan Tan’- A Symphony Concert featuring the NPO and NSSO – Queen’s Hall.
- 2022
- ‘The Tempest’ by William Shakespeare, presented by NTAC and music by the NSSO and NPO (Conductor) – NAPA
- ‘Aspire – Celebrating 60 Years of Independence and Unity Through Culture’ – NAPA
- Pan on a Higher Note ‘Jubilation’- NAPA
- ‘Fusion 3 – The Jazz Experience’- Naparima Bowl
- 2019
- ‘NAPA Celebrates 10 – The NAPA Gala Awards’- NAPA
- ‘Fusion 2 – The Jazz Experience’ – NAPA
- CARIFESTA XIV – Trinidad and Tobago – Various performances
- ‘My Home – Passion for Pan’ Mark Loquan’s 20th anniversary of music for Pan – NAPA
- ‘A Cultural Exchange Experience – Celebrating the 45th Anniversary of Diplomatic Relations between Trinidad and Tobago and the People’s Republic of China featuring the Fusion of Strings Ensemble and The NSSO – NAPA
- 2018
- Music Schools in the Community presents – ‘Dream Big Concert 2018 Music Matters (Conductor) – NAPA
- ‘Spirit of a People: J’ouvert’ – A National Patriotism Month Concert – NAPA
- CARIFESTA XIV – Trinidad and Tobago – Grand Ballroom, Trinidad Hilton
- ‘Eternal Rhythm – A Chinese Traditional Orchestra Concert’ – NAPA
- Pan on a Higher Note ‘Rhythm – Echoes Through Generations’- NAPA
- ‘Fusion – The Jazz Experience’ – NAPA
- State Funeral of Professor George Maxwell Richards – Former President of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago – NAPA
- 2017
- ‘Rhythms of Manipur – A Cultural Exchange Experience’- Central Bank Auditorium
- ‘Gracias A La Vida’- Concert to celebrate the centennial of Chilean artist Violeta Parra
- ‘A 50th Anniversary Independence Concert’- under the patronage of Dr. The Honorable Keith Rowley – NAPA
- ‘Colour Me Trinbago’- The launch of National Patriotism Month – The Courtyard, Government Plaza
- Pan on a Higher Note ‘Beyond Boundaries’- NAPA
- ‘Remembrance’ a collaborative concert with the National Philharmonic Orchestra – NAPA
- ‘Man Better Man’ by Errol Hill – Music by the NSSO – NAPA
- ‘Carnival at NAPA – Our Culture, Our Space’- NAPA
- 2016
- ‘Neighborhood Connections – From Tamboo Bamboo to Steel Symphony Orchestra’- St. James Community Centre
- ‘Carols and Classics on Steel’- Hyatt Regency Ballroom
- ‘Arise’- Collaborative performance with the Metamorphosis Dance Company – Queens’ Hall
- State Funeral for the late former Prime Minister – Patrick Manning
- Pan on a Higher Note ‘The Route’- Tobago Launch – Shaw Park Complex
- Pan on a Higher Note ‘Journey of the Ancestors’- NAPA
- Launch of Cazabon’s Legacy – Diplomatic Centre
- 2015
- Opening of the International Conference and Panorama – Queens Hall
- Opening of the WeBeat Festival – St James Amphitheatre
- Building the Rhythm Percussion Festival – Naparima Bowl
- ‘Seasons 1’ community concert series – Fatima R.C. Church, Curepe
- Performance with the Forbidden City Chamber Orchestra – Naparima Bowl
- ‘Mentoring by the Masters’ – St. Dominic’s Pastoral Centre – Auditorium
- 2014
- ‘Carols by Candlelight’ – President’s Grounds
- ‘Carols and Classics – Celebrate the Christmas Cheer’- Regency Ballroom Hyatt Regency
- Performances with Indira Naik of India and the NPO – Naparima Bowl and The Central Bank Auditorium
- Pan on a Higher Note ‘From Gershwin to Boogsie’- NAPA
- 2013
- Ninth China International Folk Arts Festival – Yichang and Beijing, The People’s Republic of China
- Carifesta XI – Suriname
- Pan on a Higher Note
- Pre Cropover-State performance – Barbados
- Gala Performance to launch the 100th year of Anime Cesaire – Martinique
- 2012
- Collaborative Concert with the USA National Symphony Orchestra for the Trinidad and Tobago 50th Anniversary of Independence – NAPA
- ‘Drums of India’ for SteelFesTT – NAPA
- Cultural Gift to the State of Martinique
- 2011
- 2010
- CREDOMATIC XX International Music Festival – Costa Rica
- “Genesis is Steel” – Concert at NAPAfest – NAPA
- Concert at Diplomatic Centre – St. Ann’s
- School Concerts at various schools across the country
- 2009
- Fifth Summit of the Americas – Hyatt Regency Hotel, Trinidad
- Commonwealth Heads of Government Conference (CHOGM) – Hyatt Regency Hotel, Trinidad
- Command Performance for King Juan Carlos of Spain – President’s House
- Command Performance for His Royal Highness, Prince Charles – University of the West Indies
- Concert at People’s Space (CHOGM)
- Concert at Neal & Massy Trinidad All Stars Steel Orchestra re Republic Day Celebrations
- Community Concerts at St. Barbs, Laventille
- Official Opening of the National Academy of the Performing Arts
- 2008
- Official Opening of the Hyatt Regency Hotel
- Carifesta X – Guyana
- Launch of N.S.S.O. – Queen’s Hall
- Concert at Naparima Bowl, San Fernando
- Concert at Vanguard Hotel, Tobago
- Concert at Phase II Pan Groove and TCL Skiffle Bunch Pan Yards
- 2007
- Performed on the new Genesis Steelpans for the launch of Genesis Steelpans, UWI, St. Augustine
- 2005
- Performed with a national contingent which was a cultural gift to the Government and citizens of Canada
- 2003
- Performed at the 24th Regular Meeting of the Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community – Celebration of the 30th Anniversary of CARICOM – Montego Bay, Jamaica
- Reception for Chinese delegates
- Telethon for the Arts
- 40th anniversary of Best Village
- Launch of the On-the-Job Training Programme
- Pan in Schools Programme
- Port of Spain City Day
- Reception for Venezuelan President – Hugo Chavez
- 2002
- President’s Wife’s Birthday Party, President’s House
- Opening ceremony of the World Steelband Music Festival
- Emancipation Celebrations
- Independence Celebrations
- Pan Trinbago’s Ball
- 2001
- Performed at the Commonwealth Nations Summit – Brisbane, Australia
- Performed at the invitation of L’Atrium of Martinique for the Rhythms of the World Festival
- Public concert, Scarborough Mall, Tobago
- Public concert, Centre City Mall, Chaguanas
- Telethon for the Arts, Media launch – Ministry of Human Development Youth and Culture
- 33rd meeting of the Regional Conference on Women
- Public concert, Woodford Square, Port of Spain
- 2000
- Carifesta VII – St Kitts
- Performed at the invitation of the Red Cross of Singapore, for a Charity Dinner and Concert, at the Grand Ballroom of the Ritz Carlton, Singapore.
- Hilton Hotel – Japan
- Performed at the invitation of the Government of Venezuela at the Festival of Sebastian Street Parade in Critical, Tachiste State, Venezuela.
- Performance for the Lord Kitchener Exhibit
- Sugar and Energy Festival
- Preview of the National Steel Orchestra’s Repertoire in preparation for CARIFESTA VII, St Kitts
- The Women’s Leadership and Enhancement Institute – Women in National Leadership Conference – Minister’s Awards and Reception Ceremony
- Opening of Cabildo Chambers
- Reception for Elliot ‘Ellie’ Mannette
- The National Steel Orchestra of Trinidad and Tobago – Induction of the Board and formal opening of headquarters
- Christmas concert, St. Mary’s Children’s Home, Tacarigua and St. Dominic’s Children’s Home, Belmont
- 1999
- Telefood Concert, The Food and Agricultural Organisation of Jamaica – Jamaica
- Miss Universe dress rehearsal
- Official opening of the Port of Spain Museum
- Caricom Heads of Government Conference
- Opening of Tent City Mall
- Emancipation Day Celebrations
- Opening of the Carnival Institute
- Independence Day command performance
- Cultural presentation for the Honorable Hector Mc Clean – MP and International President of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association and Speaker of the House of Representatives of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago
- A Tribute to Excellence in honor of Dr. Hollis Liverpool
- Third Caribbean Ministerial Conference on Women
- Prime Minister’s Public Service Award for Service Excellence
- International Day of Violence against Women
- Performance at the Prime Minister’s Residence, Jamaica
- 1998
- Independence Celebrations, Grand Stand, Queen’s Park Savannah
- Official launch of the Orchestra in Parliament
Custom
- 1996-2024
- Tenor pannist at the National Panorama with Massy Trinidad All Stars
- 2024
- Tenor pannist at the National Panorama with Massy Trinidad All Stars – Placed 1st
- 2017
- 2015
- Tenor pannist at the 1st International Panorama with Massy Trinidad All Stars – Placed 1st
- 2012
- 2011
- 2007
- 2006
- Arranged music for Neal and Massy Trinidad All Stars
- 2004
- Composed and arranged music for Neal and Massy Trinidad All Stars - World Steelband Music Festival - Placed 4th
- 2002
- 2000
- Tenor pannist at the World Steelpan Music Festival with Neal and Massy Trinidad All Stars Quartet – Placed 2nd
- 1996
- Tenor pannist at the World Steelpan Music Festival with Neal and Massy Trinidad All Stars – Placed 1st
- In addition to the aforementioned performances, throughout my 17 years with the orchestra, I have also performed at numerous workshops and concerts both at schools throughout Trinidad and Tobago and at the orchestra’s headquarters, in addition to the many free public concerts from our different concert series, such as, Carnival at NAPA, the CONTACT! Series, the Neighborhood Concert Series, and the Brown Bag series.
Custom
- Thirty-one years of professional experience in various musical roles, including performer, conductor, composer, drillmaster and arranger.
- Extensive international performance history, with successful engagements in Australia, Barbados, China, Singapore, Guyana, Suriname, Jamaica, Canada, USA.
- Skilled in managing rehearsals, coordinating with musicians, and adapting to diverse musical styles and demands.
- Proven track record of collaboration and effective communication with both performers and creative teams.
- Strong commitment to excellence, creativity, and the continuous development of artistic skills and knowledge.
- Development of artistic skills and knowledge.
Timeline
General Musician
National Academy for the Performing Arts - National Steel Symphony Orchestra of Trinidad and Tobago - NSSO
03.2025 - Current
Assistant Musical Director/Stage-Side Music Committee Member
Massy Trinidad All Stars Steel Orchestra
01.2022 - Current
Musician II
National Steel Symphony Orchestra of Trinidad and Tobago - NSSO
01.2020 - 01.2025
Assistant Musical Director/Soloist - Classical Jewels XII - The Movie
Massy Trinidad All Stars Steel Orchestra
01.2019 - 01.2019
Guest Conductor - Classical Jewels XI
Massy Trinidad All Stars Steel Orchestra
01.2019 - 01.2019
Musician II
National Steel Symphony Orchestra of Trinidad and Tobago - NSSO
01.2015 - 01.2020
Panorama Arranging Team Member - Lead by Leon ‘Smooth’ Edwards
Carib Dixieland Steel Orchestra
01.2011 - 01.2015
Musician II
National Steel Symphony Orchestra of Trinidad and Tobago - NSSO
01.2010 - 01.2015
Panorama Drill Master
Clico Sforzata Steel Orchestra
01.2010 - 01.2011
Musician
National Steel Symphony
01.2007 - 01.2010
Musician II
Trinidad and Tobago National Steel Orchestra - NSO
01.2001 - 01.2007
Panorama Arranging Team Member - Lead by Leon ‘Smooth’ Edwards
Massy Trinidad All Stars Steel Orchestra
01.1998 - Current
Section Leader/Drill Master - Tenor Pan
Massy Trinidad All Stars Steel Orchestra
01.1998 - Current
Pannist
Trinidad and Tobago National Steel Orchestra - NSO
01.1998 - 01.2001
BA - Musical Arts (Special)
University of the West Indies
Caribbean Examination Council (C.X.C) - English, Mathematics
Elders’ Classes
English Literature, Geography, Technical Drawing, Chemistry, Physics
Trinity College Moka