We will be bringing the festive spirit to the following locations in 2024.
Please check here and follow us on social media @steelpantrust for confirmed dates and updates:
- Whitefriars Canterbury, 14 Gravel Walk, Canterbury CT1 2TF
- Bentalls Shopping Centre, Kingston upon Thames KT1 1NY
- The Centre Feltham, 210 High St, Feltham TW13 4GU
Transforming Spaces with Melodies: Fundraising Street Performances
A Symphony of Giving: Street Performances that Create Impact
Are you a business seeking to infuse your space with magic? Is your shopping center yearning for a touch of enchantment? Look no further. Our steelband is here to elevate your space while channeling the power of music into positive change. When our melodies resound, every note echoes with impact, as all donations from the public directly contribute to our charitable activities.
A Universal Language, A Timeless Joy
Our 'outreach' street performances transcend ages, genres and eras. Picture this: familiar tunes from different times and genres weaving together a tapestry of unity. From shopping centers to residential areas, we bring music to those who may not easily access live performances. Our outreach performances are beloved by all ages, as they breathe life into melodies that resonate across time.
A Musical Odyssey Across the UK
From bustling city town centers to quiet corners, our music becomes a bridge, connecting hearts across the UK. Collaborating with local musicians, we create symphonies of joy that echo through communities. For our volunteers, street performances are more than musical interludes; they're opportunities to interact with crowds, to uplift spirits and to revel in the joy of music.
Where Melodies Blossom and Hearts Unite
Street performances aren't just about melodies; they're about creating connections. For musicians, it's a chance to be entertainers, crowd-pleasers and mood-lifters. It's also an opportunity to introduce the entrancing sound of steel pan to new ears, inspiring joy and curiosity in places unfamiliar with its magic.
A Journey of Over 20 Towns
Our journey of melodies has taken us to over 20 city town centers, from Chichester to Oxford, from Eastbourne to Canterbury. Our spring tours and December performances, with beloved 'carols on steel,' create a symphony of seasonal joy that resonates with the hearts of the public.
Elevate Your Celebration, Elevate Lives
Are you planning a celebration or a community event? Imagine the atmosphere transforming as live steel pan melodies infuse the air. Our music isn't just notes; it's an ambience, an emotion, a memory in the making.
Contact Us to Elevate Your Event with Melodies
Join us in spreading joy, connecting hearts and contributing to positive change. Contact us today and let's weave melodies that echo in hearts long after the music ends.
Thank you for your contribution to the Christmas season in 2023. Through your support, we successfully fundraised an impressive £2,929. Our festive journey took us on a tour in Wandsworth, Feltham and Kingston. Your generosity and enthusiasm made it all possible. We look forward to more memorable celebrations in the future!
Pan Clash
Elevate the Soloist
Celebrating Steel Pan Excellence
Thank you to everyone who joined us for Pan Clash 2024! This annual celebration of steel pan culture continues to honour the incredible talent of young soloists and the vibrant steel pan community. Pan Clash brings together rising stars in steel pan music to compete, collaborate and inspire audiences with their skill and passion.
A Platform for Rising Stars
Since its founding in 2007, Pan Clash has provided a platform for young steel pan soloists to showcase their talent and gain recognition. This prestigious event, held each October/November, remains central to our mission of promoting steel pan culture and empowering the next generation of musicians. This year’s competition featured two categories: the Under 16s and the 16-24 age group, highlighting the versatility and depth of talent among young musicians.
2024 Highlights and Performances
Pan Clash 2024 saw standout performances, with Lushan Dennis retaining his Under 16s champion title in a striking performance of DNA by Mical Teja, and Jostin Makindu emerging as the 16-24 champion with Pan in A Minor by Lord Kitchener. Both young soloists showcased exceptional skill, with Lushan performing the challenging feat of using four sticks on double tenor and Jostin demonstrating remarkable growth and musical maturity.
Newcomers from Glissando Steel Orchestra added fresh energy to the Under 16s category, particularly Albi Knell, whose dynamic performance left a lasting impression on the audience. The 16-24 category captivated with unique improvisation rounds, and songs like Buttercup by Carl Anderson and The Toco Band by Lord Kitchener brought diversity to the competition.
Upcoming Pan Clash 2025
Join us in 2025 for the next edition of Pan Clash, where we’ll continue to celebrate young soloists and the steel pan art form. We look forward to welcoming you to this annual event as we continue to promote excellence in steel pan music.
Stay Connected and Relive the Experience
Catch up on all performances from Pan Clash 2024 on our YouTube channel. Coming soon is interviews, audience insights and a highlights video capturing the event’s most memorable moments. Thank you for supporting Steel Pan Trust and Pan Clash—your involvement helps us preserve and share the rich cultural heritage of steel pan music with future generations.
For further updates on Pan Clash 2025, School-O-Rama, and other events, follow Steel Pan Trust on social media.
All inclusive steel pan workshops
Upcoming workshops in Ealing, Northolt and Acton in 2024
Harmonise with Us
Join the Steel Pan Trust as we harness the unifying power of music. Our all-inclusive steel pan workshops, scheduled in Ealing, Northolt and Acton, offer a rich tapestry of experiences for people from all walks of life. Open to everyone aged 5 and above, these workshops are perfect for families, individuals or friends eager to embark on a musical adventure.
A Family of Sound: F.A.M.I.L.Y.
Our workshops are more than just music sessions—they are a celebration of community values. We define FAMILY as Friendly, Accessible, Multicultural, Inclusive, Local and Young at Heart. It's a space where all are welcome, regardless of age, background or musical expertise.
Acton Workshop 6pm - 7.30pm (Sign up on Eventbrite here):
Location: Acton Gardens Community Centre, Unit A, Munster Court, Bollo Bridge Rd, London W3 8UU
Dates:
- Thursdays in January: 11th, 18th, 25th
- Thursdays in February: 1st, 8th
- Thursdays in August: 29th
- Thursdays in September: 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th
Northolt Workshop 4pm - 6pm (Sign up on Eventbrite here):
Location: Community First Foundation, 245 Rectory Park Ave, Northolt UB5 6SD
Dates:
- Sundays in January: 14th, 21st, 28th
- Sundays in February: 4th, 11th, 18th
- Sundays in September: 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd
- Sundays in November: 10th, 17th
What to Expect
Each workshop is a symphony of experiences. You'll be treated to a mesmerising steelband performance that resonates with energy and rhythm. And then, the spotlight turns to you. Through our interactive workshops, you'll have the opportunity to play your own steel pan. You'll learn a piece of music during each session, immersing yourself in the art and beauty of the steel pan.
An Instrument for All
The steel pan is a unique instrument that offers a gentle learning curve. With its accessible basics, it doesn't require any prior musical experience. In fact, it's entirely possible for a group with varying musical backgrounds to create a simple melody together in a short span of time. Whether you're a seasoned musician or someone exploring music for the first time, the steel pan welcomes all.
Everyone's Invited
Age knows no bounds in the world of music. We extend our warmest welcome to people of all ages and abilities. While we recommend children from the age of 5 and above, we believe that music's beauty lies in its universality—it knows no age limit.
Join us in discovering the harmonious magic of the steel pan. Let's create melodies, build connections and craft memories that will resonate for a lifetime.
“Our family had an absolute blast at the Ealing workshops! We all learned to play a melody so quickly, and our tutor was fantastic. It's a fun and inclusive experience for all generations.”
“This workshop was absolutely fantastic! The tutor was so engaging, and I had a blast learning to play the steel pan. It's a great experience for anyone interested in music.”
“Attending these workshops with my daughter, who has special needs, was an incredible experience. The inclusive environment and the patience of our tutor made it so enjoyable. We learned melodies together in no time!”
School-O-Rama
Igniting Unity and Joy through Steel Pan
School-O-Rama Festival 2024: Celebrating 10 Years of Steel Pan Excellence
Harmony in Diversity: A Festival of Music
Every summer, a harmonious crescendo reverberates across the country as dedicated school bands gather from far and wide. These bands don't just perform; they inspire, connect and learn. The occasion? School-O-Rama—a festival that's more than just music; it's a celebration of roots, culture and community.
A Melodic Tapestry
Since its inception in 2014 as "Classorama," this festival has evolved into School-O-Rama—a vibrant tapestry woven with performances, workshops and a spirit of togetherness. Over the years, more than 30 schools have graced its stage, with over 500 pupils uniting annually during the school summer term.
Preserving Heritage, Fostering Unity
School-O-Rama isn't merely an event; it's a bridge to our roots, a portal to our culture. It's where connections are forged, where origins are celebrated and where the ties that bind us together are strengthened. This festival isn't just about melodies; it's about socialisation, entertainment and weaving social networks that enrich the pan community.
Music as a Beacon of Joy
In a world that often feels monotonous, School-O-Rama stands as a beacon of joy. Its liveliness and energy inject positivity into our lives, a much-needed balm for the soul. On the day of School-O-Rama, the atmosphere transforms—positivity reigns supreme and the air is filled with the sweet notes of music.
A Symphony of Unity
At School-O-Rama, diversity dances with unity. The event embodies community cohesion, building social capital that extends far beyond its notes. It's an affirmation that music has the power to not only entertain but also to unite hearts, enrich lives and create a shared tapestry of memories.
Celebrating Life's Vibrancy
In a world that yearns for vibrancy, School-O-Rama emerges as an oasis of enthusiasm and jubilation. It's a reminder that music can be more than just a melody—it can be a lifeline, a source of connection and an embodiment of positivity.
School-O-Rama Champions
Celebrating Excellence in Pan Music Education
Secondary School
Kingsdale Foundation School
Mr. Kishan Shorter, both a former pupil and current pan tutor at Kingsdale Foundation School, has contributed to their remarkable success. With 7 out of 8 wins at School-O-Rama and 4 victories under Kishan's guidance, the school's achievements shine. Steel Pan Trust takes great pride in his role, fostering excellence at Kingsdale Foundation School and sustaining their championship reign since 2018. Their achievements extended to winning a £2,000 prize from UKON Careers at the Barking Carnival, enhancing their school with new steel pans. This collaboration exemplifies the impact of music education in nurturing talents and fostering success.
Primary School
Harris Academy Coleraine Park
At Harris Academy Coleraine Park, their consistent presence at School-O-Rama since 2014 showcases their dedication. Led by pan tutor Mr. Dan Sadler, their performances bring forth a delightful clean sound. Dan's expertise is further highlighted by his 5 victories at School-O-Rama, with another tutored school, Harris Academy Philip Lane, securing a notable 2nd place in 2022 - 2024. Their commitment yielded rewards, earning them £2,000 as winners of School-O-Rama 2024. This underscores the positive impact of music education and the vibrant community that School-O-Rama cultivates.