Steel band music, it has made a comeback and no where is it more alive than in students. 32 students are learning the art of steel band music this summer and we stopped in for a listen earlier this week.
Keith Swift Reporting,
Their sound has a professional finish but the music you're hearing is being performed by children, students really who are participating in a week course in the art of steel band. The students are working under the leadership of Carlos Perrotte.
Carlos Perrotte, Instructor
"They are learning basically rhythms, different kinds of rhythms, just technique to play the pan and to play different kinds of instruments. The purpose, the first objective is to introduce the children to music."
But one student who needs no introduction is 10-year-old Evani Neal. He is 10 years old and has been making melodies since he was 9.
Evani Neal, Student
"I love music and I've playing the guitar since I've been 9 years old so I think every year I come to the steel band class to play drums."
11-year-old Kalma Simmons joined the class for the fun of it.
Kalma Simmons, Student
"I decided to do it because I think I have some good rhythms and I think I could do really good in it."
And along with enjoying it - Perrotte says these students should be learning.
Keith Swift,
What makes a good steel band player?
Carlos Perrotte,
"Practice. The steel band is just like another instrument. It isn't different. For a violin you have to practice and for steel band you have to practice."
The program runs for two weeks.
