It’s time for Steal Pans!

As part of our Black History Month studies and celebrations, the girls are getting lessons in the steal pans.

The steelpan (also known as a pan or steel drum) is a musical instrument originating in Trinidad and Tobago. Steelpan musicians are called pannists. In 1992, the steelpan was declared Trinidad and Tobago’s national instrument by Prime Minister Patrick Manning. This helped turn the steelpan into a source of national pride and cultural identity, recognized both locally and internationally. The steelpan developed in Trinidad and Tobago during the 1930s and 1940s and evolved from earlier Carnival percussion traditions, including Tamboo bamboo. It became an important part of Trinidad and Tobago Carnival and is now the country’s national instrument.