Ryan Roberts

Born and raised in the vibrant coastal city of Virginia Beach, VA, my journey into the world of steelpan was deeply influenced by the rich musical tapestry surrounding me. Growing up, I found myself immersed in the captivating rhythms and melodies of the steel orchestras that echoed through the local community.

Fueled by a deep curiosity and love for the instrument, I began my musical journey as a young member of two esteemed steel orchestras in Hampton Roads area. It was within these steel orchestras that I cultivated strong connections and built relationships that would shape my future as a pannist.
Inspired by the incredible skill and artistry of my former mentors, Dr. Anthony Hailey, Dave Longfellow and Sophia Subero, I recognized the transformative power of steelpan and sought to delve deeper into the craft. Through the guidance and encouragement of these mentors, I began honing my skills and expanding my knowledge of steelpan tuning.

In late 2013, my dedication and passion for steelpan caught the attention of the legendary Dr. Elliott “Ellie” Mannette, one of the renowned pioneers of steelpan. Recognizing my commitment and potential, Dr. Mannette took me under his wing, becoming his invaluable mentor and guide.

Under the expert tutelage of Dr. Mannette, I embarked on an intensive apprenticeship, immersing myself in the intricate art of pan building and tuning. Guided by Ellie and his apprentices, I honed my skills, learning the subtle nuances and techniques that have made Dr. Mannette an icon in the world of steelpan.

Throughout his apprenticeship, I witnessed firsthand Dr. Mannette's unparalleled craftsmanship, meticulous attention to detail, and unwavering passion for the steelpan. My apprenticeship  was cut short by Dr. Mannette's passing in 2018, leaving an indelible imprint on my journey and solidifying the commitment to preserving and carrying forward Ellie's legacy.  After Dr. Mannette’s passing, I continued to master my building and tuning skills from the guidance from Rob Davis, Keith Moone, Chanler Bailey and Shelly Irvine.

Drawing from my extensive experience and training, I founded RRSteelPans, driven by a deep desire to share the transformative power of steelpan crafting with fellow musicians and enthusiasts. With a focus on precision, excellence, and the preservation of Caribbean culture, RRSteelPans has quickly become a trusted name in the steel pan community.

Today, I continue to honor Dr. Mannette's legacy through his meticulous craftsmanship and unwavering dedication to the art of pan building and tuning. With each instrument I craft, I strive to capture the essence and soul of the steelpan, ensuring that every note resonates with the brilliance and clarity that Ellie himself championed.