Josanne Francis

A client would expect to see a very beautiful Caribbean woman in a place you won't expect---behind the steeldrum! Not only is she beautiful, her music is moving, engaging, and expressive. Intricate melodic passages, simple melodies, familiar tunes with subtle nuances- all produced with a wand-like touch as she appears to glide her mallets over the notes on her drum, all the while moving to the beat. Josanne Francis' performance is a whole experience.
Professional character - Josanne is very easy to work with and conducts herself in a very professional manner both on stage and off stage. She has performed for audiences at venues ranging from patrons at bars to embassies where she entertained diplomats, presidents and prime ministers.

Born and raised in the twin-island Republic of Trinidad & Tobago, Josanne Francis is an internationally known steelpan performer and music educator. Her music delivers that special 'extra' that separates her from even the greats, and catapults listeners into a unique and exceptional place.

With hands that seem to float like the wings of a butterfly with a 'wand-like' touch, her music is not devoid of power when needed. Ms. Francis' music blends together and draws influences from traditional Calypso music, Jazz, Indian, Funk, Rock and Classical music- a unique mix which is not typical for the instrument.

Josanne has performed at venues such as the Kennedy Center and Carnegie Hall, and has appeared as a guest artist at festivals and universities across the United States, including the San Juan Conservatory of Music, San Juan Puerto Rico and the Caramoor Jazz Festival, NY. Josanne was recently one of 6 Artists in Residence at Strathmore for the 2017-2018 season. She currently serves as the Artistic Director of the Cultural Academy for Excellence, Inc. and runs her own steelpan educational company called Steel on Wheels Inc.

- Will not perform in direct sunlight (must be covered by tent) as this would affect the tuning of my instrument
- Will require access to outlet for trio and solo performances where I would be using tracks
- No electricity required for unaccompanied performance (for example, beach wedding ceremony)