Drums with 55-gallon voices
Steel Pan Ensemble provides percussionist perspective on classic albums and pieces
The UConn Steel Pan Ensemble put on a show at Von der Mehden recital hall Sunday evening. The ensemble, consisting of 17 undergraduate students, and directed by Robert Stephens, performed seven pieces reflecting a variety of musical styles and cultures. The set included "Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da," originally composed and released by The Beatles on their 1968 album of the same name. Also performed was "Jump For Joy," a song reflecting the genre of SoCa, a cross between Soul and Calypso; originally composed by Austin Lyons and Rowans Lewis.
Other pieces included "Meditation on an African Groove," "Cha Cha Sandwich," "Morning Dances," "Bees Melody" and "Mule." All songs were arranged to be performed on the ensemble's unique combination of instruments; including not only Steel Pan drums, but keyboard, cello, guitar and bass.
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