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| Getting ready to perform at Steppin' Out. |
Our instruments are technically called "pans" but they are made from steel drums. We refer to them as drums because that's how most non-players know them.
What are the different kinds of pans?
In our band, we have leads, double tenors, double seconds, guitars/cellos, and bass.
The leads (1 pan) create higher tones and typically play the melody of a song. Think of this as the singer in a band.
The other pans tend to play more rhythmic or strumming patterns. The higher rhythms are the double tenors and double seconds (2 pans). The guitars (3 pans) and bass (6 pans) are lower with bass as the deepest tone.
What is the engine room?
The engine room is the heart of the band and provides the rhythm to the rest of the group. Our engine room is typically made up of a drummer (drum kit), a brake drummer, and shakers but the engine room could include bongos, cowbells, and other percussion instruments.
Where/when can I see you perform?
Most of our shows are in the summer in Blacksburg, Virginia, or other nearby towns. As a large group, we typically perform at Summer Solstice in June and Steppin' Out in August. We also play in a small group formation for private events.
How long have the members of your group been playing the pans?
It varies among members. Some have played since 2004. Newer members have played for just a few months. Check out the individual section pages for profiles of our members.
How many members are in the band?
The total fluctuates but there are about 25-30 members. Take a look at the individual section pages for member bios.
When do you practice?
We practice once a week on Monday evenings for 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
Do you have to read music to play pan?
No, many of our members do not read music so the music is marked with the proper note and so is the pan. It's a matter of muscle memory and finding the right note at the right time.
I'd like to learn how to play pan with PanJammers. What should I do?
Most of our members started off with attending a workshop, and that is the recommended route to take so that you are not overwhelmed at practice. You will be introduced to the pans in an environment where everyone is learning. There's no heavy commitment when you take a workshop. Email us for more info: blacksburgsteelpans@gmail.com.
