Despite confronting typhoon winds of up to 162 kph, the U of L Global Drums Steel Band, under the direction of Adam Mason, completed a successful tour of Japan in September.

Representing Canada at PANFESTA, Japan's National Steel Band Festival, in Yokohoma,
12 students, Adam Mason and guest artists Tracy Thorton and Alan Coyle performed to an enthusiastic dancing crowd.

"Our group enjoyed cultural visits to the ancient capitol of Kyoto and home stays with families in Towada in conjunction with the Lethbridge Twinning Society," says Mason. "We took part in a traditional tea ceremony and represented our sister city of Towada with a public concert and community workshop."

Their trip was cut short, however, on Sept. 5, when the group was forced to evacuate Japan due to Typhoon Krovanh, which put an abrupt end to PANFESTA.

"Fortunately it was right after Global Drums finished their performance," says Mason. "Global Drums students jumped in without being asked to help festival organizers dismantle tents, which were starting to come apart in the heavy winds."

Not even the weather could dampen the spirits of these dedicated percussionists.