Steel Rain is a music organization focused on bringing the tradition of Trinidadian steel band music to our community. We can be found doing local performances at events, visiting school music programs, and hosting educational workshops for all, regardless of skill or experience. We are a diverse set of musicians from all backgrounds and identities, playing a diverse set of instruments and music.
Educational outreach
Steel Rain can be found performing at local festivals, fairs, and events tied to culture, arts, and – our favorite – food! We hope to use our platform and voice to uplift and support our colorful communities. From hosting world music workshops at local schools, to leading a conga line at Caribbean Queens Festival, we strive to connect with everyone regardless of age, race, gender, sexuality, musical experience, or ability.
“Come hell or high water, they made music.”
Dr. greg youtz
Our next event!
- 1795314600
days
hours minutes seconds
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PLU Steel Band Concert
If you have any questions, are interested in booking us, or would like to join our email list, click here!
The Steel Pan
This beautiful instrument, the steel pan, is a symbol of resilience. It is the only acoustic instrument invented in the 20th century and is the only instrument to be created out of industrial waste. In the early 1900s, Trinidadian slaves had their drums, music, and their voices stolen from them. Still, they turned to whatever they could find, including trashed oil drums, and found a way to make music and reclaim their voices. Out of oppression and pain, the Trinidiadian people created an entirely new culture surrounding this “tuned hunk of metal”. This story inspires all of us here in Steel Rain, reminding us that creativity has no bounds and that music refuses to be silenced.
Though steel pan is heavily present in Calypso and Soca styles of music, we have a special opportunity to feature many different genres of music – in addition to Calypso and Soca – through steel band; pop, rock, classical, jazz, Cubano, reggae, Asian pop varieties, and many more!
