Steel Pan Ensemble

Music 2207.02 / 7207.02

(Performing Ensemble)

Prerequisites: Open to non-majors. No previous musical experience required.

Offered: Mondays • 5:30–6:50 p.m.

Note that not all ensembles are offered every semester. Please visit Class Search and consult with your academic advisor.

Course Description

Steel pan ensembles originated in Trinidad in the 1930s, when local musicians began to repurpose discarded oil barrels and transform them into melodic instruments. Closely associated with the island’s Carnival culture, “steel bands” would soon become the national music of Trinidad, and a marker of Caribbean identity, across the region and throughout the world. Steel bands have now become a fixture in university and other educational settings for their ability to create community through the experience of collective musical performance and cultural immersion.

In this course, students will learn standard steel pan technique, gain fluency in Caribbean rhythms, and perform classic Calypso and Soca repertoire and original arrangements created by the instructor or collectively as an ensemble. The university is fortunate to have its own set of steel pans for students to play, but those playing other steel-band instruments, including vocalists, drummers, bassists, guitarists and horn players, are strongly encouraged to join as well.

Open to everyone on campus, regardless of background, experience or skill level.