Kristian Paradis is an active performer and teacher of Caribbean steel drums. After completing his undergraduate studies Kristian successfully auditioned for the U.S. Navy Music Program. Upon completion of his military music training at the Armed Forces School of Music, Mr. Paradis became a member of the U.S. 7th Fleet Band in Japan. He served as the drummer for the Far East Edition show band, drummer, and steel-pan soloist in the Navy Jazz Combo and principal percussionist in the Navy concert and ceremonial band. With these groups he served as a musical ambassador for the Navy and the United States, performing in Russia, China, India, Australia, South Korea, and many other countries in East Asia and the Pacific islands. 

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While living in Japan, Mr. Paradis performed as a lead pan player for the Tokyo Panorama Steel Orchestra. After serving his enlistment, he returned to the United States and to the University of Delaware, where he earned his Master of Music, and then joined the faculty as Steel Band Director in 2005. Kristian has also directed successful youth steel bands at Springside-Chestnut Hill Academy, Play-on-Philly!, and Northern Childrens’ Services  in Philadelphia. In addition to teaching, Kristian has been the drillmaster and stage-side arranger for the Philadelphia Pan Stars Steel Orchestra, and maintained an active performing career as both a solo steelpan artist and with several bands, including Plenty Pepper Steel Band and the Caribbean Sunset Band. Kristian has competed in Panorama Steelband Competitions in New York, Miami, and Trinidad, appearing with the Philadelphia Pan Stars, New Generations Branches Steel Orchestra, SuperNovas Steel Orchestra, Silver Stars, and Pandemonium.

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Kristian is a founding member of Resolution Steel Orchestra and has played an integral role in the formation of the organization. We are very fortunate to have someone with his expertise and passion for the instrument helping to lead the way for this next generation of pan players.