Known equally well for his compositional and performance prowess, composer Andy Akiho has contributed greatly to the repertoire for contemporary steel pan. A native of Columbia, South Carolina, Akiho first began playing steel drums while attending the University of South Carolina and performing with the Palmetto Pans Steel Band. This family of instruments quickly grew into a specialty and passion for Akiho, resulting in several trips to Trinidad and performances at Panorama Festivals. Murasaki (which translates to purple from Japanese) is part of Akiho’s Synesthesia Suite, a name Akiho ascribed given his own experiences with having synesthesia. The work was inspired by the music of Bob Marley, and evokes reggae styles and rhythms. Originally scored for lead pan, harp, cello, bass, and drum set, the version presented on this omits the harp and replaces the cello with marimba. (Note by Joseph Spearman)

Performed live at The Ohio State University School of Music, Hughes Hall September 26th, 2021.

Joseph Spearman, Lead Pan

Dallas Carpenter, Bass

Amelia Duplain, Marimba

Hannah Moore, Drum Set