Monday, September 17, 2012

Wanted: Newbies

"Gosh, those PanJammers really look like they are having a good time."  
Yup, we are.

"Hmm. I bet they practice a ton to play the way they do."  
Nope, just once a week on Monday evenings.

"I'd like to try it, but I don't want to buy an instrument and find out I don't like it." 
You don't have to buy a pan (drum)... and you'll love it!

Now that we've cleared that up, it's time to stop thinking and start doing!

Our workshop beginners workshop starts next week and we know you want to give it a shot. Here's a message from our Musical Director, Christine:

The Panjammers steel drum band has scheduled its fall beginners' workshop! Starting September 24, we will meet Mondays from 5:30 to 6:30 pm at the Tried Stone Christian Center at 2100 North Main Street in Blacksburg. (Here's a link to it on Google maps: http://goo.gl/maps/25aym ) The workshop will run for six weeks. At the end of that term, if there is interest in another workshop, we will keep going.

No prior musical experience or knowledge is required. Our goal is to have fun while learning a new skill and playing music with friends. As we learn songs, we will work on mallet technique, basic rhythm and theory, and how to play together as an ensemble.

The Panjammers will be practicing in another room of the church at the same time. For the last few minutes of each workshop session, we will join them to play what we worked on that day as a mass band. After that, you are welcome to stay for the rest of Panjammers practice if you like. It runs until 8 pm.

The workshop will cost $25 total for six weeks. You may pay with cash or check; just bring it along to the first session.

Please email blacksburgsteelpans@gmail.com if you plan to come, and let me know if you have any questions or concerns. I hope to see you September 24!


Note: You do not need your own instrument to participate in the workshop (or the band, for that matter). PanJammers will provide them. Also, the location does not imply religious affiliation. It's just where some generous members of the community have allowed us to practice.... Bring a friend! We love meeting new people. :)

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