Steel Pan Playing Basics

Playing songs on the steel pan is an exciting and unique musical experience. The steel pan, or steel drum, is a percussion instrument that originated in Trinidad and Tobago and is played by striking the metal surface with beaters or sticks. With different types of steel pans requiring different mallets, players can create a range of sounds and notes. For instance, the tenor pan, with its high sound range, and the bass pan, with its low range of notes. Playing the steel pan is accessible to everyone, as demonstrated by Scott Johnson's educational program for children, where students learn to play a song on the steel pan with an instrument that has only eight notes. The steel pan is also available to play online through Virtual Piano, where anyone can try playing the instrument using their computer or mobile device.

Choosing the right steel drum

Type of Steel Drum

The first step is to determine the type of steel drum that aligns with your musical goals. The most common types include:

• Tenor: The tenor steel drum, also known as the lead or soprano pan, has the highest sound range among steel drums. It usually consists of a single barrel and plays the melody in steel band arrangements.
• Double Tenor: The double tenor is made up of a pair of tenor drums, offering a wider note range. It is often used to play the counter melody in steel bands.
• Double Second: The double second steel drum is another double drum set, typically used to play the counter melody and harmony in a steel drum band.
• Guitar Steel Drum: This type of steel drum usually has two pans with eight notes each and is used to play chords or the harmony horn section.
• Cello Steel Drum: The cello steel drum, made up of three separate drums, produces a melancholic and deep tone, perfect for playing rhythm, chords, and harmony.
• Bass: The bass steel drum is the largest and has the lowest range of notes. It usually plays bass lines but can also be assigned melodies or countermelodies.

Chromatic or Diatonic

Steel drums can be categorised into two types: chromatic and diatonic. Chromatic instruments contain all the tones of the scale and can reproduce all melodies and chords. Diatonic instruments, on the other hand, contain only the notes of a chosen scale and will only allow you to play in defined keys. If you plan to play harmonically elaborate music like classical or jazz, a chromatic steel drum would be more suitable. For traditional folk music, a diatonic instrument may be preferable.

Range and Tone

Consider the range and tone that appeal to you. Steel drums come in various registers, from the low-pitched six bass to the high-pitched tenor. The range you choose depends on your personal taste for tones, whether you prefer the deep tones of a bass or the higher tinkling of a tenor.

Size and Space

The size of the steel drum will depend on the space you have available, especially if you opt for a larger setup like the six bass drum, which requires a significant amount of space. If you have limited space, a smaller drum like the tenor or a single-barrel diatonic drum might be more suitable.

Brand and Quality

While the brand may not be the most important factor, it is worth considering the reputation and accessibility of the manufacturer. Additionally, the quality of the steel used is crucial. Extra thin or thick steel can impact the sound and durability of the instrument.

Price

Steel drums vary in price, depending on their quality, features, and type. The cost can range from around $160 for a basic kit to over $1000 for more advanced options. The average price for a decent kit is generally in the range of $190 to $200.

By considering these factors and trying out different steel drums, you'll be able to make an informed decision about which one is the right choice for you.

Setting up the drum

Firstly, set the drum at a comfortable height. The ideal position for easy access is around waist height. Ensure that you are not standing too close or too far from the drum, and maintain a slight distance between your elbows and the drum. This will give you the space to move your arms freely while playing.

Next, tuning the drum is crucial. While you can attempt to tune the drum yourself, it is recommended to leave it to a professional tuner. The tuner will set up two elements of the tone: the fundamental (playing pitch) and the timbre (colour of the tone). They will use a small hammer and a rubber-tipped tuning stick to tap the notes and adjust the pitch accordingly. The size of the notes determines the type of hammer used. The tuning process consists of three main steps: coarse tuning, fine tuning, and blending. Coarse tuning involves softening the metal and setting the right pitch. Fine tuning adjusts the pitch and timbre while the drum hangs in the playing position. Finally, blending is the final adjustment of the pitch, timbre, and loudness of the various notes.

After setting up and tuning your drum, you can move on to learning the different techniques for holding the pan drum mallets and playing your first songs.

Holding the pan drum mallets

Choose the Right Mallets

Different types of steel drums require different mallets. The mallets consist of a dowel (or shaft) made of wood or aluminium and a rubber tip. The size and type of rubber tip vary depending on the class of the pan being played. Thinner rubber tips are used for steel drums with a higher pitch, like the tenor pan, while thicker and softer tips are more suitable for lower-pitched drums.

Grip Techniques

There are a few recommended ways to hold the mallet when playing the pan drums:

• Grip the mallet with your fist, pressing it with your index finger.
• Hold the mallet with a light grip, holding more than one-third of it.
• Grip the mallet with three fingers.

Avoid holding the mallet too tightly, as this will hinder the production of a good sound. A loose grip is preferable, and it is important to keep the mallet contact time as short as possible to allow the notes to vibrate freely.

Number of Mallets

Most pan drums are played with both hands, and you can use different kinds of sticks and mallets. Some musicians use four pansticks, holding two in each hand.

Learning to play handpans

First, you need to choose the handpan scale. The notes of the handpan have the pitch ascending in order of the numbers, from left to right, back to front. Handpans are tuned to a specific scale, with eight or nine notes. Each handpan note holds at least three frequencies: the fundamental note and the compound fifth on a 1:2:3 ratio. You can choose the handpan scale according to your taste. The major scale has a happy sound, while the minor delivers more sad and nostalgic tones. There are many other variations of the scales, such as Indian, Middle-Eastern, and Chinese, which bring an exotic sound.

Second, you need to position your handpan. Handpans are usually played while sitting down, but you can also play while standing. If you choose to play while standing, you will need a handpan stand to put your instrument at the appropriate height. Most handpan players position their instrument so that the lowest notes are closest to their body, but the choice is ultimately up to you.

Third, you can start playing. Handpans are usually all about improvising and going with the flow, without much musical theory. However, the technique of the strike should be established. Try hitting the handpan with your fingers as if the instrument's surface is very hot and release immediately. This way, the instrument will release the most resonance and not mute the note.

Playing songs on the steel pan

Choose the Right Steel Pan

The first step is to select the type of steel pan you want to play. There are various types, including the tenor pan, double tenor pan, double second pan, bass pan, double guitar pan, and cello pan. Each type has a different sound range and number of barrels or pans. For beginners, it is recommended to start with one type of steel pan to get a feel for the instrument.

Set Up the Steel Pan Correctly

It is important to set up the steel pan correctly to ensure optimal playing experience. Adjust the height of the steel pan to around your waist level. Position yourself at a comfortable distance from the steel pan, with your elbows slightly away from it. Ensure that the steel pan is well-tuned by a professional, who will set the playing pitch and the timbre, or colour of the tone.

Hold the Mallets Properly

Holding the mallets or sticks correctly is crucial to producing a good sound. Pan drums are typically played with both hands, and you can use different types of sticks and mallets. Experiment with different grip techniques, such as the fist grip, index finger press, three-finger grip, or a light grip. Avoid holding the mallet too tightly, as this will hinder the sound quality.

Learn the Basics of Playing

Start by learning the basics of playing the steel pan. You can find tutorials, books, or online resources specifically designed for beginners. Practice striking the metal surface with the mallets to get a feel for the instrument. You can also try playing along with recorded music or following sheet music designed for beginners.

Practice and Patience

Playing the steel pan takes practice and patience. Dedicate time to regular practice sessions to improve your skills. Focus on your technique, rhythm, and striking force. Explore different types of music and styles to broaden your repertoire. With consistent practice, you will develop your skills and be able to play more complex songs on the steel pan.

Frequently asked questions