London All Stars Steel Band
LAS was formed by Frank Rollock in 1974 and consisted of two generations of the Rollock family. As with many of the early community steelbands, they originated from a family steelband.
LAS rehearse twice a week on Wednesdays and Fridays from 7 to 9pm. Lessons can also be arranged at alternative times and days for personal tutoring. The band members were originally taught by Frank Rollock and more recently by Phillip and Princess Rollock.
In addition to learning new skills, the Rollock family welcome all band members into their ‘steelpan family’ as a way of boosting confidence and being active in the wider community. All members of the steelband are given the opportunity to perform at gigs, regardless of their ability.
LAS has performed in many countries such as Barhrain, Denmark, France, Germany, Qatar and New Zealand. At home, LAS has won the UK Panorama competition on three occasions and a record six wins of the ‘Bomb’ competition. In the summer months, Brixton is usually filled with the sound LAS’s performances. Most recently they performed at ‘Secret Brixton’, an event organised by Yelp to unlock Brixton’s hidden gems.
What the members say
Shannon Walker - 'I’m so blessed to be part of
this incredible and talented family. My Grandad Frank taught me to play steel
pan from the age of 7, I have been playing now for 15 years. I feel especially
proud to represent the band and collect awards at the annual BAS Awards, which
is a testimony to my Grandad’s legacy. '
Amber Davies - 'I have been playing with
London All Stars for around 6 months, and I don’t feel like a band member… I
feel like part of their family. The band members are very welcoming and
encouraging with helping new comers develop their talent.'
Amiah Simms - 'I have been learning steel
pan for almost a year now and really enjoy it. I always rush home from school
and look forward to steel pan practice.'
Information supplied to My Panyard by London All Stars Steelband