On Tuesday, December 6, we were treated to a real gem of a tour at Panyard Steel Drum Factory in Akron. This company is the largest producer of steel drums (or pans) in the U.S.! They also produce the highest quality of steel drums. We learned while on the tour that this is due to the 6 years spent in research and development before even producing one pan.
Our tour was guided by the owner of the company, who not only showed us the pans, but played them for us (beautifully), and allowed us to join in the fun. The kids were able to practice their rhythm in a tamboo bamboo style band by using pvc "bamboo" sticks, drumsticks, shakers, and a real brake drum, used to keep the rhythm in large groups. We learned all about the origin of pans in Trinidad, a brief history of the island, and why the "pan" was so important.
We also learned about Panyard's particular production methods and why they are superior to many other pan producers. The kids all took turns pounding out the head of an old steel drum, using heavy mallets, which was the old way of making the drums, and we were able to see the pneumatic equipment that is now used. The pans produced there are incredibly beautiful and produce amazing tones.
The kids were also able to play the prototype of a new pan that Panyard is producing specifically for kids who want to learn how to play. They expect to have sales available by February. The kid-sized pan will come with a DVD cartoon that teaches them to play, and should cost around $125, which is quite reasonable considering that a typical beginner's pan will cost around $500. It also has stunning sound quality, due to the time spent designing and crafting it.
Panyard and the International Association of Pan Enthusiasts are sponsoring a Pan Festival on April 28-30, 2006 at the John S. Knight Center in Akron. I might arrange to take a group, but even if I don't, it will be a worthwhile day trip for anyone and their family. I highly recommend it!
This was one of the best tours I've ever taken!
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