MIM Musical Interludes Series: ASU Pan Devils Steel Band

The ASU Pan Devils Steel Band, whose members are undergraduate and graduate students, brings the energetic sounds of the West Indies to its performances, showcasing the steel drum, or pan, a unique musical instrument that has its origins in Trinidad. Beginning with a 55-gallon oil drum, the creation of a steel drum includes pounding, tempering with fire and water, and then painstakingly grooving each note into the metal. Today, the steel drum is popular throughout the world and has gained acceptance as a serious musical instrument. It can be found in calypso bands, rock bands, classical ensembles, jazz combos, and many other kinds of music ensembles.