The steel pan/steelpan is the national instrument of Trinidad and Tobago. This program teaches participants how to play this wildly popular instrument in a encouraging environment. Our classes are taught in a group setting, where individuals learn to play a variety of songs.

This program allows students to:

• Learn how to play relevant scales and how to play by ear.
• Stimulate concentration, motor skills, rhythm and creativity.
• Connect with the history and culture.
• Express themselves musically.

Details:

• Each term is 8 weeks long, $100 per student.
• The program is open to anyone aged 9 – 65yrs+
• Program materials will be provided to students.
• Lessons are held at Tropicana Community Services offices at 1385 Huntingwood Drive, Scarborough.
• Classes are held every Saturday afternoon and Monday evening for each 8-week term. See below for times.
  • Saturday:
  • Beginner: 1:00 to 2:00 p.m.
  • Intermediate: 2:00 to 3:00 p.m.
  • Advanced: 3:00 to 4:00 p.m.
  • Monday:
  • Beginner: 6:00 to 7:00 p.m.

• Your instructor is Andrew Jackson.
• Spaces are limited.

2025-2026 Season Class Dates

FALL 2026
(No lessons: Thanksgiving Weekend – October 10 to 12, 2026)

• Saturdays
• September 19, 26
• October 3, 17, 31
• November 14, 21
• Mondays
• September 21, 28
• October 5, 19, 26
• November 2, 16, 23

WINTER 2026
(No lessons: Family Day Weekend – February 13 to 15, 2027

• Saturdays
• January 9, 16, 23, 30
• February 6, 20, 27
• March 6
• Mondays
• January 11, 18, 25
• February 1, 8, 22
• March 1, 8

SPRING 2026
(No lessons: March Break – March 16 to 20, 2027, Easter Weekend – April 2 to 5, 2027, Victoria Day Weekend May 22 to 24, 2027)

• Saturdays
•      March 27
•      April 10, 17, 24
•      May 1,8, 15, 29
• Mondays
•      March 29
•      April 12, 19, 26
•      May 3, 10, 17, 31

Spring 2027 Concert
Saturday, June 5, 2027 | Time:  1 PM – 3:30 PM

Program Goals:

• Provide students with the support, resources, and tools needed to develop their interest and abilities in playing a steelpan drum.
• Build self-confidence, self-respect, and enthusiasm for music and culture.
• Help students build strong learning techniques.
• Encourage students to develop collaborative and team-building skills.
• Educate students on the culture and background of the steelpan drum.