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Kristian Paradis - Steel Drums
- Philadelphia, PA
- Steel Drum Player
- Travels nationwide
- $250-$1500
Overview
Kristian performs on steel drums along with pre-recorded professional backing tracks, to give a fully orchestrated sound with only a single performer. He also performs solo classical music for wedding ceremonies or intimate gatherings. His steel drum duo, trio, and quartet are also available for events and venues where a larger group is appropriate, from backyard bashes to Atlantic City casinos.
Mr. Paradis has performed around the United States, Europe, Asia, and the Caribbean, including concert appearances with the Tokyo Symphony Orchestra, the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, and Supernovas, Silver Stars, and Pandemonium steel orchestras in Trinidad.
23 Reviews
Kristian Paradis was hired as a percussionist for a choral holiday concert in Northern Virginia. He was great to work with and an excellent musician.
Percussionist
Kristian was fantastic! His music helped set the mood for the party. Everyone loved him.
Steel Drum Player, Beach Music, Caribbean/Island Music, One Man Band, Steel Drum Band
The ladies loved him and the music was perfect for the store
Steel Drum Player
We had the pleasure of hosting a pool party with Kristian Paradis and it was nothing short of excellent. Kristian arrived right on time, setting the stage for a smooth and enjoyable event.
The music was fantastic—uplifting and pleasant, perfectly complementing the party’s atmosphere. Kristian was also very sociable with everyone, adding a personal touch that made the experience even more memorable. Our guests thoroughly enjoyed the steel drum tunes, which added a vibrant and relaxed vibe to the evening.
We can’t wait to have him back for future events. Highly recommended for anyone looking to elevate their gathering with delightful live music!
Steel Drum Player
Had a great time! The music was perfect.
Steel Drum Player
Our campers loved Kristian's performance. He had them up and dancing, and also answered questions and shared information about his steel drum! We highly recommend him for your event.
Caribbean/Island Music, Steel Drum Band
Kristian had the best party vibe for all of our guests. He arrived early and set up a great musical set with lights and decorations. The steel drum music was so fun for all our guests! Thank you again for the music and great times.
Kristian was awesome! The steel drum music set the mood for a perfect party on the water front in NE MD. I could not be more pleased! Our guests really enjoyed the music! Thank you!
Steel Drum Player
Response from Kristian Paradis - Steel Drums:
Thank you Laurie, it was a pleasure to play in such a beautiful space for a great group of people!
~Kristian
Kristian was amazing! We had our annual spring gala themed "Island Cruise Party" and when you go on a cruise to the islands what is the first thing you hear when you get on the ship steel drums of course. Kristian set the mood during the cocktail hour! He was amazing! Highly recommend Kristian for your next party!
Calypso Band
Kristian Paradis was truly amazing! He played the best music in line with my theme and he was a true professional! Arrived on time, set up quickly and even had music playing while setting up. It was a party to remember! Thank you Kristain!!
Beach Music, Caribbean/Island Music, Jimmy Buffett Tribute, One Man Band, Party Band, Steel Drum Band
Response from Kristian Paradis - Steel Drums:
Aww thanks Sharon!
I would recommend 1000x again. You really brought the party together!
Soca Band, Steel Drum Band
Kristian was a wonderful musician, friendly and mixed in well with my guests. He arrived in plenty of time and was very professional in all respects. I would definitely like to have him play again at another event.
Caribbean/Island Music, One Man Band, Steel Drum Player
Great! Outstanding!!
Steel Drum Band
Kristian was professional and played great music. Nothing but compliments throughout the night. Excellent!
Steel Drum Player
Everyone loved the music. Kristian was great.
Steel Drum Player
Our residents absolutely loved Kristian as he played a variety of sounds on his steel drums. They felt as if they were on a tropical island, far away. He was interactive with the guests and made everyone feel comfortable. He arrived early, and stayed late.
Four Seasons Harbor Bay will absolutely look forward to inviting Kristian back to play.
Steel Drum Band
Kristian was the perfect addition to our party. He arrived on time to set up, he dressed appropriately for our BBQ themed party in a Hawaiian shirt, jeans and flip flops, and his music added the perfect touch. I'm so glad I found him on gigsalad. I would definitely hire Kristian again if we have another big party.
Beach Music, Steel Drum Player
Kristian was communicative, punctial, and added the perfect vibe for my sister's 40th "Margaritaville" themed bday party. Thanks so much for making our event special!
Kristian did an excellent job! Very professional - communication was great, showed up on time and engaged my guests (many of which raved about his performance). Would definitely book Kristian again, and wouldn't be surprised if some people in attendance at the bridal brunch I hosted request his contact information.
Brought a great vibe to the event, and helped to make it a success!
Steel Drum Player
Kristian couldn't have been nicer and more professional. The residents had a lot of fun with him.
Steel Drum Band
Kristian came on time and played for the whole event without taking a break. That was over hour and a half. A guitarist friend joined him and it was a nice bonus. We had lot's of kids and adults and it made for a festive occasion.
Steel Drum Player
Kristian performed at a festival for our community dog park in Philly. In addition to being a talented percussionist, he was easy to work with and was very responsive in terms of communication. Kristian went above and beyond what was asked. We originally arranged for just Kristian on steel drums, but a guitarist/vocalist he sometimes plays with happened to be in town, so Kristian made it a two-piece band for no extra cost. His sound was professional and his steel drumming blended in nicely with the background pre-recorded music. It is clear that he loves performing and has a lot of fun with it. I highly recommend Kristian!
Beach Music, Caribbean/Island Music, Steel Drum Band
Response from Kristian Paradis - Steel Drums:
Thanks Brian! The pleasure was mine!
~Kristian
Kristian played at our signature fundraising event. We booked him to play the steel drums as background music during our gala. Because of his talents, he naturally became a central and integral part of the evening. Kristian was very accommodating (allowed us to use his sound system for a video presentation), cooperative, flexible, and extremely talented. I highly recommend him for your events! Our guests were very complimentary of his music and fun personality. Our planning committee is very appreciative of Kristian's cooperation and professionalism.
Steel Drum Player
Booking Info
Price Range: $250-$1500
Languages: English
About
Noted steel drummer Kristian Paradis plays with a number of groups, as well as performing solo, to suit any occasion or venue:
The -Paradise Steel Duo- consists of two virtuosic steel pan players who play the music of the islands as well as music from around the world.
The -Kristian Paradis Quartet- offers instrumental calypso and island jazz, and can set the mood for relaxing, or turn up the energy for dancing. The instrumentation is two Steel Drummers, Bass, and Drumset.
The -Caribbean Sunset Band- offers the music of Jimmy Buffet and other Trop Rock artists, as well as the classic calypso music of Trinidad and Tobago. The instrumentation and size of the band can vary from a duo with Steel drums and guitar/vocals, to a seven piece band with a full rhythm section, horns, and pedal steel guitar.
-Plenty Pepper Steel Band- The only true steel band gigging in the area with soprano and bass steel drums - (4 steel drum players plus drumset)
Kristian performs solo along with pre-recorded professional backing tracks, to give a fully orchestrated sound with only a single performer. He also performs solo classical music for wedding ceremonies or intimate gatherings. His steel drum duo, trio, and quartet are also available for events and venues where a larger group is appropriate, from backyard bashes to Atlantic City casinos.
Kristian Paradis is an active steelpan performer and teacher based in Philadelphia. Mr. Paradis has performed around the United States, Europe, and Asia, including concert appearances with the Tokyo Symphony Orchestra and the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra. He taught steelpan at the University of Delaware for 15 years. Kristian regularly travels to Trinidad and Tobago, birthplace of the steelpan, where he has played in the national steel band competitions with the Silver Stars, Pandemonium, and Supernovas Steel Orchestras.
Past Booked Events
December 07, 2024 • 2:30pm - 8:30pm | Concert |
September 15, 2024 • 11:00am - 2:00pm | Anniversary Party |
August 23, 2024 • 3:30pm - 7:00pm | Corporate Event |
August 09, 2024 • 7:00pm - 10:00pm | Cocktail Party |
July 29, 2024 • 5:00pm - 8:00pm | Personal Occasion |
July 20, 2024 • 4:00pm - 6:00pm | Retirement Party |
July 16, 2024 • 12:30pm - 3:00pm | Corporate Event |
July 09, 2024 • 1:00pm - 2:00pm | Camp Event |
July 02, 2024 • 6:00pm - 8:00pm | Retirement Party |
June 07, 2024 • 6:00pm - 9:00pm | Rehearsal Dinner |
May 18, 2024 • 6:00pm - 7:00pm | Dinner Party |
May 17, 2024 • 5:00pm - 7:00pm | Cocktail Party |
March 16, 2024 • 6:00pm - 8:00pm | Fundraiser |
November 25, 2023 • 2:00pm - 4:30pm | Dinner Party |
July 29, 2023 • 2:30pm - 8:00pm | Birthday Party |
June 22, 2023 • 6:00pm - 8:00pm | Corporate Event |
August 09, 2022 • 3:30pm - 4:30pm | Cocktail Party |
June 25, 2022 • 5:00pm - 9:00pm | House Party |
June 12, 2022 • 12:30pm - 2:00pm | House Party |
June 11, 2022 • 4:00pm - 6:30pm | Wedding Engagement |
May 13, 2022 • 2:00pm - 2:30pm | Funeral/Memorial Service |
April 15, 2022 • 12:00pm - 5:00pm | Grand Opening |
December 18, 2021 • 7:30pm - 9:00pm | Christmas Party |
August 03, 2021 • 5:00pm - 7:00pm | Launch Party |
July 16, 2021 • 8:00pm - 10:00pm | Cocktail Party |
July 10, 2021 • 4:30pm - 6:30pm | Personal Occasion |
June 26, 2021 • 6:00pm - 10:00pm | Graduation |
June 19, 2021 • 4:00pm - 6:00pm | Birthday Party |
June 12, 2021 • 2:00pm - 5:00pm | Bridal Shower |
June 11, 2021 • 2:00pm - 4:00pm | Personal Occasion |
April 21, 2021 • 3:30pm - 4:30pm | Retirement Community Event |
October 30, 2016 • 4:00pm - 6:00pm | Holiday Party (Halloween) |
April 19, 2015 • 3:00pm - 5:00pm | Fair/Festival |
May 23, 2014 • 5:00pm - 9:00pm | Public Event |
May 17, 2014 • 5:00pm - 7:00pm | Birthday Party |
April 25, 2014 • 7:00am - 11:00am | Fundraiser |
June 06, 2013 • 6:30pm - 8:30pm | Other |
Set List
This is a short, and by no means complete, list of tunes you may hear:
Bacchanal Lady David Rudder
Black Orpheus Luis Bonfa
Blue Bossa Kenny Dorham
Brown Skin Girl Harry Belafonte
Corcovado Jobim
Day- O Harry Belafonte
Dolly Dawn Harry Belafonte
Don't Worry, Be Happy Bobby McFerrin
Down De Road Andy Narell
Girl From Ipanema A.C. Jobim
Here Comes the Bride Wagner
Hot Hot Hot Arrow/Buster Poindexter
I Can See Clearly Now Frampton / Big Mountain
I Cant Help Falling In Love With You Elvis / UB40
I'll Remember April Frank Sinatra
In a Sentimental Mood Duke Ellington
Island in the Sun Harry Belafonte
Jamaica Farewell Harry Belafonte
Jesu Joy of Man's Desiring Bach
Kiss The Girl From the Disney Film "The Little Mermaid"
Limbo Rock Chubby Checker
Margaritville Jimmy Buffett
MaryAnne Harry Belafonte
Matilda Harry Belafonte
Never on Sunday Traditional Greek
One For the Road Baron
One Love Bob Marley
Pan in A Minor Lord Kitchener
Parisian Thoroughfare Bud Powell
Red Red Wine Neil Diamond / UB40
Sarah Boogsie Sharpe
Somebody Baron
Somewhere Over the Rainbow Israel Kamakawiwo Ole
St. Thomas Sonny Rollins
Sunset Boogsie Sharpe
Trumpet Voluntary Clarke
Under the Sea From the Disney Film "The Little Mermaid"
Volcano Jimmy Buffett
War Pigs Black Sabbath
Wave A.C. Jobim
Yellowbird Haitian Traditional