Who we are
Impulse Steel Orchestra is a dynamic steel band based in Toronto, Ontario, founded in 2025. Led by experienced youth leaders with over 30 years of playing experience, we are dedicated to spreading the vibrant culture of steelpan music through education, performance, and community engagement. Rooted in tradition but always evolving, we bring energy, rhythm, and Caribbean vibes to every stage. Whether performing at festivals, schools, or community events, our mission is to inspire, educate, and share the powerful sound of the steelpan with the world.
MEET THE TEAM
MEET THE TEAM
Thadel Wilson - Co Founder, Musical Director
Take a minute to write an introduction that is short, sweet, and to the point.
Richard Cornelius - Co Founder, Operations Director
Richard Cornelius was introduced to pan at Cedarbrae C.I.'s after-school steelband program taught by Randolph Karamath. He would begin playing with New D in the summer of 2007, and has been with the band ever since. Richard studied at the University of Windsor and plays a multitude of instruments including trumpet and guitar.
After the passing of Miley Duke and Jose Machado, the original band leaders of New Dimension, Richard lead the band alongside Denise Als and Thdael Wilson until 2024 before branching out and starting Impulse Steel Orchestra with the other three co founders.
Aldene Herman - Co Founder, Marketing Director
Aldene is a dynamic force in community-building, storytelling, and Caribbean cultural preservation. With a background that bridges hospitality, media strategy, and nonprofit leadership, she thrives where creativity meets impact. From executing memorable events to mentoring youth through steelpan education and securing grants and sponsorships, Aldene brings heart, vision, and deep respect for heritage to every endeavor.
Rooted in the rich traditions of Mas, music, and history, she is devoted to uplifting Caribbean narratives—past, present, and future. Aldene doesn’t just celebrate culture; she curates it, builds platforms for it, and ensures it is passed on with pride and purpose.
A passionate and skilled cook, she also sees food as a powerful connector—using cuisine and music together to bridge cultures, spark dialogue, and build community across generations and backgrounds.
A pannist since 2003 and born to pannist parents, Aldene continues to uphold and preseve the culture of steelpan here in Toronto.
Denise Als - Co Founder, Costumer
Denise Als developed a passion for music at an early age, beginning with piano lessons before expanding her repertoire to include clarinet, saxophone, and steel pan. With over 15 years of experience playing steel pan, her journey led her to earn a Music degree from the University of Windsor and a B.Ed. from Queen’s University. In 2022, she was honored with the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Pin for her contributions to the community. Denise has played with and arranged music for several steel bands across the GTA, and in 2025, she co-founded Impulse Steel Orchestra alongside three fellow musicians. She currently serves as the Steel Pan Coordinator for the Canadian Caribbean Association of Halton, where she teaches and shares her deep love for pan, music and culture.. Follow her musical journey on Instagram: @DeePlaysPan
.
Gayle Wilmot - Secretary
Tiffany - Chair?
Contact us
Interested in working together? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly. We can’t wait to hear from you!