Who we are
Impulse Steel Orchestra is a dynamic steel band based in Toronto, Ontario, founded in 2025. Led by experienced 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, corporate or community events, we aspire to inspire, educate, and share the powerful sound of the steelpan with the world.
Our Misison
Our mission is to spread Caribbean culture, creativity, and history through the power of steelpan music. Rooted in experience and targeting millenials and youth, we bring music, education, and community together to inspire the next generation and keep the rhythm alive.
Our Vision
Our vision is to continue propelling steelpan in Canada through education, access and visibility. We strive to highlight the cultural significance and musical prowess of the instrument to introduce it to those not yet familiar. For those familiar with the instrument we are looking to bridge the gap between interest and access to allow more people to experience steelpan.
MEET THE TEAM
MEET THE TEAM
Thadel Wilson - Co Founder, Musical Director
Thadel Wilson is a gifted Canadian pannist hailing from Toronto, celebrated for his versatility and passion for the steelpan. Over the years, Thad honed his craft to become a skilled player on all the pans within the orchestra, earning a reputation for his adaptability and artistry.
He has performed with many prominent steel bands in Toronto, New York, and Trinidad. With 25+ years of experience, Thadel has gone from being just a player within the orchestra to becoming an arranger for the orchestra.
Currently, Thadel serves as the Musical Director for Impulse Steel Orchestra in Toronto, where he is dedicated to inspiring the next generation of pannists. His mission is to promote the steelpan’s rich cultural and heritage by educating and empowering young musicians to embrace its transformative power.
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.
As a pannist since 2003 Aldene has competed in Toronto, Trinidad & Tobago & New York with plans of reaching a wider audience with her steelpan talents. Also a public speaker and host, Aldene speaks on panels educating and advocating for the advancement of steelpan.
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.
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 - Board Member
After 17 years in the advertising and marketing business, Gayle was introduced to steelpan music and joined a band in Toronto.
She instantly fell in love with the music and culture surrounding pan, and went on to write, direct and produce the multi-award-winning documentary film' Hearts of Steel'. The film focuses on the social importance a steel pan band can provide, as well as the sheer joy and excitement that it creates for players and their audience.
She is thrilled to be a part of the new Impulse Steel Orchestra family where she provides an advisory and enthusiasm role.
Tiffany Moraes - Chair
Tiffany is a proud graduate of the University of Waterloo, where she studied Business, Therapeutic Recreation & Leisure, and Tourism. During the pandemic, she furthered her education by completing an MBA, bringing a deeper strategic perspective to her work.
For over 15 years, Tiffany has been a dedicated advocate for seniors, focused on creating environments where older adults can age with dignity, independence, and fulfillment.
In addition, Tiffany successfully ran her family’s learning centre, where she played a pivotal role in tripling student enrollment through innovative programming and strong community outreach. Each year, she proudly leads a poinsettia fundraiser, with all proceeds donated to the local food bank —an initiative that has become a cherished 13 year tradition and a reflection of her commitment to community service.
Tiffany believes that music truly heals the soul and finds joy in all its forms. She also has a deep love for travel and treasures time spent with family and friends. Whether she’s exploring a new destination, sharing a laugh with loved ones, or diving into a favorite playlist, she is always embracing life’s simple pleasures.
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!