Austin Community Steelband

Austin Community Steelband and BGCCA have partnered to provide steelpan classes for club members. The hope is to spread the joy of steelpan, especially reaching “at-promise” kids. BGCCA Board Member Bill Estes sponsored East Club member Tatiana Caldwell for her steelpan lessons; seven other club kids were sponsored by Austin Community Steelband and their local supporters.
    The steel drum, or "steel pan" originated in Trinidad as an acoustic instrument, and has become a significant part of the culture in Trinidad and Tobago. It is the only musical instrument to be invented in the 20th century. The steel orchestra consists of an assortment of tenor and double tenor pans, double seconds, guitar pans, quads, cellos and bass pans. The instruments span five octaves and have the same range as an orchestra. A full steel orchestra would contain up to 120 players using over 300 instruments. The music has evolved to include jazz and classical music.
    East Club Director Latasha Mitchell has been accompanying the kids to their lessons at Austin Community Steelband on E. 10th St. The kids attended six-week sessions, twice a week after school. The program will continue this summer with twice per week morning sessions.

SOMEBODY  The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Capital Area Newsletter Summer 2007