SCHOOLS

The steel pan is a perfect instrument, as the basic skills are easy to learn and playing the instrument does not require any previous musical experience. It is possible for a group with any level of musical experience to accomplish a simple melody within a short period of time.

Outcomes

Learn about the history of steel pans from the Caribbean
Learn a piece of music using the steel pans
Enhance rhythmic and improvisational skills
Develop listening skills
Develop ability to work in an ensembles
Develop confidence through performing to an audience (optional)

“It was the school’s first experience of steel pan and it was brilliant. The two musicians exceeded expectation. All staff and children enjoyed the performance. Workshops were thoroughly enjoyed by all ages, very positive responses from everyone”

P. Byles, Dr Triplett’s C.E. Primary School

WORKSHOPS

Our all day workshops generally include a performance during morning assemblies followed by workshops with 15-30 pupils per session. Workshops start from 20-minutes up to 1-hour per session, this is dependent on the total number of participants. The day includes information about the history of steel pans, an interactive performance assembly where pupils will learn about the history of steel pans. In our workshops pupils learn a melody/rhythmic tune on the steel pans each with their own steel pan.

Our Full Package includes Steel Pan, Djembe Drumming and Tamboo Bamboo workshops. The origin of steel pan begins with the Djembe Drums in the 18th Century, which lead to the Tamboo Bamboo Bands and the formation of the steel drums in the 1930’s. Pupils will have the full experience of the steel pan instrument.

"Thank you both for such a fantastic day. The children have all been buzzing about what a fun experience they had with you, and so many staff have said that you really lifted their spirits at the end of a busy term! I really appreciate you adjusting you usual timings to accomodate our timetable, thank you. We look forward to seeing you again in the future"

Shona Anelay, St Edmunds School Trust LTD

ASSEMBLIES & PERFORMANCES

Steel pans assemblies are a great way to teach pupils of all ages about the only new instrument to be invented in the last century; originating from the twin islands of Trinidad & Tobago. We present a small steel orchestra for pupils to learn about the history and range of the steelband orchestra and perform popular songs and traditional Caribbean music.

Steelband performances are also great for summer fairs and other school events providing a vibrant atmosphere performing calypso, reggae and popular tracks.

Steelbands perform a 90-minute set or two 45-minute sets within 3-hours from the musician’s start time.

Assemblies are usually three 30-minutes or two 45-minutes. Including performances for parents arriving or collecting pupils from school in the playground always goes down very well.

"It was amazing! The kids really enjoyed themselves and are already asking when they can do it again. All the guys were great and managed to get all the kids to participate, engage fully and actually make some pleasant sounds!”

Vicki Foreman, Lark Hall Primary School