Learn to Play Pan

A pan (or steel pan) is a finely tuned steel drum, and is the only new acoustic musical instrument invented in the 20th century.  It originated in the Caribbean island of Trinidad and its first crude notes were pounded out by descendants of African slaves on inverted 55 gallon oil drums abandoned there after WWII.  Today’s family of steel pans is now played throughout the word and is suitable for all genres of musical styles – from classical to the traditional calypso of the island. The instruments in a typical steel orchestra cover a tonal range of 5 octaves. Starting with the highest pitch, the groups of instruments are called: tenor or soprano, double tenor, double second, guitar, cello, quads, tenor bass, 6 bass and 12 bass.

Join Flash!

Carl Chase, music director and instructor

We are always interested in attracting new members.  Beginners’ classes are offered (see below).  Anyone completing a beginners’ class may join FLASH!  Please contact us if you would like more information about steelband classes or to learn more about participating in Flash in the Pans steelband.  You may also ask about learning to play at any of our performances, or visit a rehearsal.

FLASH! rehearses from October through May on Thursday nights at 7:30.  Practices are held in the pan room at George Stevens Academy (GSA) in Blue Hill, Maine.  (see map).  From Ellsworth travel south on route 172 into Blue Hill. Turn right onto Route 177 and then right again in one block onto High Street to find parking. Walk behind the GSA gym to the pan room on the right.  Just follow the sound!

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Steelband Classes

Offered through Pan Institute, Nigel Chase - director

Get in on the fun – learn to play pan!  Steelband classes for all ages are available in Blue Hill. Prior musical experience is NOT required, and instruments are supplied for all classes.  Classes are held in the pan room at George Stevens Academy in Blue Hill, Maine.  Registration is at the first meeting of each class.

Adult Education Classes

Beginner's Class
(for adults and students 8th grade and up)

Nigel Chase, Instructor
207-326-4025 (winter only) or 207-326-9324 (summer)

Children's Classes

Pan Pirates- beginning classes for kids 3rd - 7th grade)

Rhythm Rockets Steelband

(for experienced players at the elementary school level)
Nigel Chase, Instructor
207-326-4025 (winter only) or 207-326-9324 (summer)

Planet Pan Steelband

Participation in Planet Pan Steelband is available to all teenagers attending area high schools.  Classes are held Tuesdays and Thursdays 5:00 - 7:00 beginning September 12 and running through the school year.

Contact:
Nigel Chase, Planet Pan Director
207-326-4025 (winter only) or 207-326-9324 (summer)