Steel Pan Music
Music Maestro

Music Maestro
Find out what a steelpan drum is and how it's made and played.

Instructions:

The steelpan or steel drum is a musical instrument made from the end of a 55-gallon oil drum. It was first invented in Trinidad. Steelpan players are common in restaurants or at socials providing a light, melodic background music characteristic of the Caribbean. Check local listings for performances. Your hotel may have one who plays every week at a scheduled time, if not, ask the concierge for a recommendation.
Watch a performance and wait until the performer takes a break, this is a good time to approach and ask questions. Where did s/he learn how to play? How is the steelpan made? Where did s/he get a drum or did s/he make it? What is his/her favorite song to play and why? Is it difficult to play? Maybe the performer would be willing to show you a few tricks. If you like steelpan music, ask the performer what s/he recommends you to buy. Odds are the performer has a CD of his/her own.
Think about how such beautiful music can come out of an old oil drum. When you return home, imagine what else could be made into an instrument. Look around your house; with a bit of creativity, you can turn nearly anything into a musical instrument!

Supplies & Materials

-assorted household materials


User Reviews

Tell everyone what you think!
Be the FIRST to write a review for this activity.

My Trip

est. visit time: 0.0 hrs

Best Audience

Age: Children (4-8yrs), Pre-teen (9-12yrs)
Duration: 15-30 minutes
Cognitive Level: 1-3 Grade, 4-6 Grade, 7-8 Grade
Activity Level: Low
Attention Span: Med
When to do it: During Your Trip, On Location

Related Sites