Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force Steel Orchestra

The Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force Steel Orchestra (TTDFSO) is a specialized military band that is part of the Trinidad and Tobago Defence Force. It has its roots in British traditions for military bands, all while also uniquely using unconventional instruments such as steelpans and other native Trinidadian instruments. The 40 member band is currently the only military steel band in the world.
The Trinidad and Tobago Regiment provides the majority of the musicians who are assigned to the orchestra. Following a brief attempt create a similar type of marching band the 1960s, the TTDFSO was created on 2 June 1995 on the initiative of Chief of Defence Staff Carlton A. Alfonso and Sergeant Cecil James. The regiment had its own brass band at one point, which followed French and African music styles. Today the band follows Afro-Caribbean music Calypso music rhythms in its repertoire.