Steel Drum Classes

A steel drum or pan is a definitive-pitch, acoustic, percussion instrument originating from Trinidad in the Caribbean.

The steel pan family, like all other families of musical instruments including the voice, covers a wide range of notes. Each instrument has a different role similarly to the instruments in a classic orchestra or jazz band.

It consists of a circular playing surface made from Steel stretched into a concave shape that is attached to a hollow, cylindrical resonator called a skirt. The steel plan is typically recycled from a 55 gallon oil drum.

The surface is optimised into a number of isolated convex sections called notes. The instrument is usually plated with a pair of hand-held, rubber tipped sticks.

The steel pan is a unique instrument classified as either a membranophone – striking a stretched surface like a membrane, or an idiophone – solid surfaces striking against each other.

It is the only hybrid percussion instrument in existence today.

Come Join Us…

If you love the sound of the Steel Pan, just like we do, then come along to our learner’s sessions to find out how to play. Our lessons are led by Claire in session blocks on Monday at 11am. Booking is essential.

Undecided or want to have a chat about joining us. Then get in touch: