Projects
Empowering Through Projects: Building Communities with Music
Enriching Thousands Through Music and Engagement
Steel Pan Trust's impact is a symphony of connection and transformation. Every year, we engage with up to 10,000 individuals across the UK through the harmonious blend of music and social activities. Our projects serve as the conduits of change, bringing people together and fostering growth.
Tailored Projects, Meaningful Impact
Our growing range of projects reflects the rich diversity of the communities we serve. Whether in schools, care homes, community centres, or at public events, our workshops and performances are designed to be inclusive, uplifting, and accessible to all. (For detailed insights, refer to the evaluation report below.)
Current and Recent Projects
Schools Arts Opportunity Fund (2024–2025)
Funded by Young Ealing Foundation and Ealing Cultural Education Partnership, this project brought high-quality, inspiring steel pan workshops to four primary schools in Ealing. Between September 2024 and April 2025, we visited Viking, Mayfield, Gifford, and Clifton Primary Schools. Each school received a high-energy assembly and a hands-on workshops where every child had access to their own steel pan.
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Steel Pan Tutor/Musician Training & Development (Ongoing)
Supported in part by Britford Bridge Trust (£10,000 awarded), this programme provides training and development opportunities for emerging steel pan tutors and performers. Three tutors are currently in school placements, and nine young people are performing regularly and learning new repertoire for summer events. As full funding was not secured, much of the training is being delivered online.
City Bridge Foundation Senior Citizens Project (2023–2026)
Now in its second year, this three-year project engages older adults in London through joyful, accessible steel pan workshops. In Year 1, we delivered 11 sessions to 71 participants, with even more attending public performances. This year includes a collaboration with UKON Careers CIC to present a senior performance at Barking Carnival.
All-Inclusive Workshops – Acton Gardens (2024–2026)
Funded by Ealing and Hounslow CVS, this three-year project supports inclusive music-making for people of all ages and abilities at Acton Gardens Community Centre. Year 2 concluded in early 2025, and feedback remains overwhelmingly positive, with participants rating the sessions 5 out of 5.
All-Inclusive Workshops – John Smith House, Barking (2025–2026)
With support from the National Lottery Community Fund (Awards for All), this newly funded project will deliver inclusive steel pan workshops over two years starting in September 2025. Sessions will take place at John Smith Medical Centre in Barking, continuing our efforts to ensure music is accessible to all.
A World of Possibilities: Accredited Qualifications
We're not just about playing for fun; we're about nurturing growth and learning. Steel Pan Trust believes in the potential of each individual. Accredited qualifications in playing and teaching steel pan open doors to a world of recognition and growth. Partnering with PRSSV, a world music education provider, we offer pathways for individuals and groups to gain recognised/certified qualifications, taking their practice to new heights.
A Call to Collaborate
We extend an open invitation to form arts projects with Steel Pan Trust. The power of interaction within our communities is a potent antidote to challenges like aging and loneliness. Learning a new skill, such as playing the steel pan, is more than just acquiring knowledge—it's boosting confidence, enhancing engagement and fostering resilience. The benefits cascade, alleviating anxiety, depression and stress and replacing them with the joy of creative expression.
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Join us in the journey of transformation through music, community and the profound impact of shared artistry.
EVALUATION REPORTS
Explore Our Reports
We invite you to learn more about the transformative impact of our projects through our detailed evaluation reports:
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All-Inclusive Steel Pan Workshops Report (2023–2024)
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Outcomes & Impact
Pannist's Journey: Overcoming Challenges Through Steel Pan
Pannist's Journey: Overcoming Challenges Through Steel Pan
"Before I found steel pan, I was in the grip of depression and anxiety that had clouded over a year of my life. My world felt grey and I struggled to find joy in everyday activities. The weight of my symptoms isolated me, making it hard to go out, meet friends and take care of myself. Slowly, my motivation faded and anxiety took hold, trapping me in isolation."
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"Then came steel pan—a haven for stress. As a beginner, I found it remarkably accessible, with instructors who understood my journey. The sessions left me feeling accomplished, invigorated and alive. Steel pan injected a spark back into my life and I left each session with an extra 'pep in my step.' It's a remedy for stress that I'd recommend to anyone seeking an outlet for their struggles."
Head of Music at a Mixed Senior School: Fostering Commitment Through Steel Pan
"Our school's steel band is a testament to dedication. A mix of talents, from level 5 and 6 traditional musicians to those with behavioral challenges, come together with one common commitment—steel pan. The students' enthusiasm is palpable; they work tirelessly for showcases and their devotion is unparalleled."
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"The steel band isn't just another musical group; it's the 'go-to' band for events. They're always ready to perform, showcasing not just their musical prowess but their unity and readiness. This band becomes a magnet for recruitment, drawing students who are captivated by the magic of steel pan. It's a musical journey that brings the school community together."
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Safeguarding Lead at a Primary School: Empowering Confidence and Focus Through Steel Pan
"In the realm of steel pan, children find more than just music. The showcase becomes a platform for their confidence, a moment to present and witness the brilliance of fellow performers. Beyond the music, steel pan influences behavior in the classroom. The children find focus and concentration, qualities that empower them not just as musicians but as learners."
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"For the shy children, steel pan becomes a transformative force. It's not just about the beats; it's about finding their voice, embracing their abilities and breaking barriers of shyness. In this journey of sound, they find their stride and a newfound self-assuredness."
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Steel Pan Trust: A Tapestry of Transformation
Through steel pan music, lives are reshaped, challenges are conquered and melodies become beacons of hope. These stories of impact illuminate the profound influence that music, community and connection can have on individuals of all walks of life.
Monitoring for Positive Impact: A Commitment to Wellbeing and Sustainability
At Steel Pan Trust, our dedication to making a meaningful impact is deeply rooted in effective monitoring and evaluation. We continue to collect and analyse data on the inputs, outputs, and outcomes of our projects. Guided by a robust monitoring strategy, including insights from professional freelancers and community partners, we ensure that every aspect of our work is measured with precision and depth, showcasing the transformative power of music in fostering community wellbeing and sustainability.
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A Well-Structured Approach
Our commitment to transparency and accountability drives us to publish detailed evaluation reports. These reports, meticulously crafted and enriched by participant insights, highlight the impact of our workshops and are now available on our website. They stand as a testament to our efforts to foster stronger, more inclusive communities.
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Framing Wellbeing and Sustainability
Our evaluation strategy draws from the Greater London Authority (GLA) wellbeing and sustainability measure. This multidimensional framework not only provides a snapshot of participants' wellbeing but also identifies areas where we can drive positive change. By incorporating both qualitative and quantitative data, we ensure our workshops remain impactful and aligned with community needs.
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Impact Highlights
Our workshops focus on accessibility, service quality, community satisfaction, and preserving cultural heritage. The impact is seen in the smiles, testimonials, and feedback of participants who leave our sessions feeling empowered, connected, and enriched. These efforts continue to contribute positively to mental health, social engagement, and overall quality of life.
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Looking Ahead
We remain committed to sharing stories of transformation and empowerment, ensuring our work resonates far beyond the communities we serve.