The instrument, origin, history
Invented in the 1940’s in Trinidad and Tobago, where it is known as the «pan», the steelpan is an innovative musical instrument originally made from a petrol barrel. It is considered the only acoustic instrument invented in the 20th century. All musical styles can be played on this instrument, from classical renditions to jazz to popular music and certainly including the traditional soca/calypso sounds of Trinidad and Tobago. The instrument can be played by solo performers or by large orchestral groups ranging from 4 to 120 musicians – known as «steelbands». Find out more about the steelpan at > PAN TRINBAGO