Steel Impressions Youth Ensemble -- Audition Date/Time Change

The Steel Impressions Youth Ensemble audition dates and times have changed. Auditions will be held the following dates and times:

June 23, 2008 - 10:00 - 11:00; 3:00 - 4:00 pm

July 1, 2008 - 10:00 - 12:00 pm

Please email janera@solomonsteelpan.com or call 412 431 - 6030 ext. 4 to schedule an appointment. 

thanks,

janera

What do you know about pan history?

i don't understand why so many people who really know nothing of steelpan history insist on talking about it. first of all, the idea that pan comes from one man or one source is ridiculous. to talk about the development of pan as though it were simple, would be like crediting the invention of the piano or violin to one person. 

There are at least two types of pan in the world right now, both with wildly different histories: pan created in Trinidad and Phil Solomon. The two approaches couldn't be more different. How would we characterize the two approaches? What are they based on? How are the design and Tuning processes different? I will be addressing these questions and much more through a series of blog entries and podcasts. 

In the meantime though, i would very much appreciate it, if steelband directors, or pan students would stop talking about pan as a "accidental" discovery of the Caribbean or the invention of Ellie Mannette, or the "lucky accident" that resulted from the remainder of steeldrum barrels left over from World War II. These characterizations are propagate myths and are truly disrespectful to pan makers, tuners, arrangers and players everywhere.  

Steel Impressions Youth Ensemble

Steel Impressions Steelband, started by Phil Solomon, over thirty years ago is launching a training program for young, talented steelband players in Western Pennsylvania. Interested students should review the following information and complete an interest form. 

You can visit: http://www.panpittsburgh.org for more info. 

Auditions will be held Monday June 23, 2008 from 10 - 3:00 pm. 

Lunch will be served. 

To learn more please call 412.431. 6030 ext. 4 or email janera@solomonsteelpan.com

Steelin Jazz Jam Session

This is one of my favorite clips from panPittsburgh 2007 from the jazz jam session, Steelin Jazz with Roger Humprhies Quintet, Roy Crosse and Phil Solomon. Held in a great loft space downtown Pittsburgh's Cultural District, it was one of our most memorable events; folks are still talking about it.  This clip doesn't quite capture the beautiful performances by the group that night but we love Phil's solo on this song. 

Phil Solomon and Steel Impressions "Moonlight Sonata"

This is a clip from a black box theater performance of panPittsburgh's first Classical Steel program. The idea for the event was to play some of Phil's favorite classical pieces for audiences in an intimate setting. It was a beautiful evening of performance. The complete program was performed later as part of the August Wilson Center's First Voice Festival. 

pan tuning

what makes certain sounds interesting or appealing than others? for as long as i can remember i've loved to the sound of a steelpan. my father used to make his pans in our house. so i always knew he was home by hearing the tuning sounds from the basement. i'd sit and watch him, until the note came in. to hear a note come into existence is an amazing experience to hear.

i went to my father's shop a couple months ago and just as i alway do, i stood and watched him tuning a pan. he makes it seem effortless. the way he strokes the pan with a hammer and mallet, a perfect balance, with just the right amount of tension... here's a short clip.

http://video.google.com/googleplayer.swf?docId=-8216135390496578267&hl=en

Roy Crosse

i just love this music from Roy Crosse. He will be our featured performer Friday June 15 for Steelin Jazz. here's a sample...five.wma