Musician Robert Symons has been delighting passengers aboard one of Bermuda’s ferry with the soothing sounds of his steel pan, finding creative ways to sustain his career.
A professional musician since 1976, Mr Symons has performed four days a week on the ferry, from Dockyard to Hamilton, since last month, drawing praise from locals and tourists.
In response to the challenges posed by the pandemic, which impacted local live venues, Mr Symons has also taken to busking at various locations around the island, including Washington Mall and Supermart on Front Street.
“Times are tough for performing artists,” said Mr Symons, who has been granted permission to play his music by Marine and Ports. “But busking helps me network— you never know who you’ll meet!
“Since the pandemic, the live music industry has slowed down, so I must be creative to pay my bills.”
Symons’ journey in music began as a bass guitarist in cabaret show bands across Bermuda, the East Coast of the United States, and the Caribbean.
He picked up the steel pan in 1995 while living in the US Virgin Islands and later performed for the Bermuda Department of Tourism, at the L.F. Wade International Airport, and on Caribbean cruise ships.
Among his career highlights is representing Bermuda as a steel pannist at the Edinburgh Military Tattoo in 2003, an event watched by 1.7 million viewers worldwide.
Not only is Mr Symons continuing to follow his passion as a busker, but he also believes his music enhances the Bermudian experience for all who hear it and remains dedicated to his craft.
“I have to dress up, clean up, show up, and make an effort—every single day,” he told Bernews.
“It’s rewarding in many ways. How often do you get on a ferry and listen to a steel pan?”
A Marine and Ports Services spokesperson said, “Mr. Symons has performed on the department’s ferries in the past. He continues to showcase Bermudian talent at its best. We’ve received positive feedback from our cruise ship passengers.”
