The Background

Rhythm & Steel are a small steel band, ideally suited to parties and corporate events. This four-member band are a true steel band, with no drum kit, synthesisers, amplifies or electric base - the original style! Established for some years, we have played far afield and have even been selected to appear on TV (watch this space!). We not only pride ourselves in our music, but also our reliability and stagecraft - we have 'saved the day' on many occasions, and have received many compliments on our 'professionalism'.

We can also provide FUN WORKSHOPS. We will try to teach a simple tune to a number of people in 15 minutes or so - and then they perform it! Great fun for kids and adults.

The Music

We play a variety of music, from traditional Caribbean, to popular classics. Beatles numbers take on a new life when played on steel pans! The music is always bouncy and captivating. You won't find a single glum face in our audience! Some of the traditional steel band pieces are very rousing, and will make the hair stand up on the back of your neck, and the popular classics will often get the crowd clapping or dancing, even in the middle of the local shopping centre.

A little History

Whenever we play, we always attract a lot of attention, and our audiences let down their hair. We are often approached and asked to explain how such an unlikely instrument came into being. The trip into the history books is usually met with astonishment. The birth of the instrument took place in the West Indies. After the Second World War, the islands were littered with oil drums, left behind from the forces. The locals used their initiative and turned the garbage into musical instruments. The development did not take place over night, and even now changes in the design of the notes on the pan are still taking place, as manufacturers try to provide the users with the best tonal quality, and playing options. Until very recently all steel pans were hand made. There are now some small factories making some lower-quality steel pans from scratch, but the majority are still made by one-man companies littering the world.

Our Engagements

Rhythm & Steel are always quite busy. We play for many local (and not so local charities), as well as corporate events to raise money. We will often be seen in local shopping centres, especially during late night shopping evenings. We play at weddings and parties, when we can offer an extremely competitive price.

Other Links

If you would like more information on a local wind band, just follow this link: ASCB Web Site

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