Sunday, October 23, 2005

University of Akron Steel Drum Band

On Wednesday, October 19, we were treated to a wonderful concert by the University of Akron's Steel Drum Band with guest performer Liam Teague. Liam is known as the "Paganini of steel drums." He truly was talented, playing beautifully along with the band and performing one of his own pieces called "Raindrops." I never knew a steel drum, or pan, could sound like that.

Mattew Dudack
The Steel Band was also amazing themselves. These are college students who I'm sure haven't been playing quite as long as Mr. Teague, but still held our attention and awe at the beautiful music they played. They were incredibly talented and their enjoyment of the music was evidenced by their dancing along while they played. Their music was interspersed with lessons about the history of the pan in Trinidad, including some video. Musical selections ranged from typical calypso styles to a portion of Mozart's "Requiem," which you haven't heard until you've heard it played by a steel drum orchestra. I was thrilled, and the girls enjoyed it as well.

The concert was hosted by the Children's Concert Society of Akron, who also sponsor other activities during the school year. Although they recommend the concert for 4th to 6th graders, they had no problem with the different ages involved in a home schooling group. They were very kind and welcoming to us. I would recommend any event they host as very professional and worthwhile. Also, if you can make it to any of the Steel Band's upcoming performances, don't miss it!

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