The Brooklyn-based Caribbean cultural group Tropicalfete, Inc., said on Tuesday that Trinidadian steelpan virtuoso and cultural ambassador Joshua Regrello recently visited its headquarters on New York Avenue coaching the group’s Steel Ensemble on proper playing techniques.

Regrello recently secured a Guinness World Record by playing the steelpan for 31 uninterrupted hours.

“On behalf of the organization, it was an honor to have Josh (Joshua) at the space coaching the ensemble on proper technique and embodying vibrant energy,” Jeanine Ruiz, a Trinidadian-born producer and composer who works with  Tropicalfete Steel Ensemble as a teaching artist and musical arranger, told Caribbean Life.

Ruiz said she and Regrello have been friends and collaborators on different projects over the years, making his visit “a natural, effortless partnership.

“I invited Josh as an act of ‘bridging the gap’ between American and Caribbean communities, where he could directly impart knowledge and his energy to the kids,” she said.

Regrello said, “I was honestly very impressed with the kids at Tropicalfete. They showed real talent and potential on the steelpan, and it was inspiring to see their passion for the instrument.

“I’m confident we’ll see ace pannists emerge from this group sooner than you think,” he added.

Ruiz said, “the energy Joshua brought to the practice session translated to the ensemble performance the following day.

“The public has a number of performances from Tropicalfete to look forward to, including Tropicalfete’s Pop Up Caribbean Carnival in Times Square on Aug. 24,” she added.

Alton Aimable, Tropicalfete Inc.’s St. Lucian-born founder and president, said his organization “passionately ensures Caribbean culture is preserved and has a prominent place globally.

“It is this strong sense of community and authenticity that enables Tropicalfete, Inc. to have a lasting, meaningful impact,” he added.

“Everyone in the organization is committed to creating an experience that celebrates culture, growth, and talent, continuously carrying Caribbean heritage forward with pride,” Aimable continued.