SteelPan Music Program

The steeldrum band is modernly known as a musical steelpan orchestra. We provide all steelpan instruments for the implementation, maintenance and growth of every steelpan orchestra under our leadership. The steelpan orchestra generally consists of the soprano, alto, tenor and bass voices which are represented with the tenor, double second, guitar and bass steelpan instruments. Although our music emphasis is on the steelpan instrument; students will be exposed to all forms of instrumentation used as accompaniment to the steelpan orchestra.

The opportunities provided to members of a steelpan orchestra are inspiring and impressionable. The cohesiveness necessary to make a steelpan orchestra successful will cause an awareness of the importance of teamwork and cooperation, plus foster a sense of belonging. This project will capture, maintain, and open the eyes and minds of young people to the vast possibilities and realization of their self worth.

Our Steelpan Program will provide a unique alternative for youths and adults during and after school hours as the program will focus on the students creative abilities and provide a new medium of positive expression. This program allows the student to focus his or her energy on this new instrument rather than waste energy on acts of destruction. Children who may not find music captivating and stimulating will enjoy this instrument’s unique qualities and distinctive sounds.

Students will discover the correlation between music, math and science by applying the following techniques: 

· Exercises identifying music scale notes as numbers 
· Application of the plus + and minus - in forming chords 
· Understanding the effect of the plus + minus - in scale tone intervals · Numbers in rhythm

In addition, students can experience the functions of literature, geography, social studies and art in a socially relaxed environment where subtle disciplines in cooperative communication are practiced by participating in the following activities:

· Music demonstrations and hands-on instruction in steelpan techniques
· Instruction on and craftsmanship of various Caribbean instruments · Song and ethnic dance instruction
· Steelpan workshops (Instruction, making of the instruments, tuning)
· Costume Design and Construction
· Lectures on self-esteem and cultural pride with emphasis on American, Hispanic and Caribbean history and the origin of the steelpan

The music program works equally with privileged as well as with disadvantaged youths, other interested youths, and citizens of all ages, in an entertaining and educational setting. Our goal is to teach youth to interact with peers and adults positively and constructively. They will be able to exchange information and demonstrate for themselves and their Peers their accomplishments.