Artistic & Professional Development – Nia Centre for the Arts
For Community

Echoes of the Caribbean: Steel Plan Classes

Date

August 5 - 26, 2026

Time

6:30PM

Location

524 Oakwood Ave, Toronto, ON M6E 2X1

A four-part, beginner-friendly workshop series exploring the rich musical traditions of the Caribbean for 30+ aged folks

Book your spot now

Discover the echoes of the Caribbean – one rhythm at a time. This is a 30+ Program

Join us for Echoes of the Caribbean: A Steelpan Class Series, a four-part, beginner-friendly workshop series exploring the rich musical traditions of the Caribbean through steelpan, cultural storytelling, and hands-on learning.


Each session spotlights a different Caribbean musical genre, from the vibrant energy of Trinidad’s Soca to the soulful grooves of Jamaican Reggae, the infectious rhythms of Cuban Salsa, and the melodic sounds of Zouk from Martinique and Guadeloupe.

Designed as stand-alone experiences, participants are welcome to attend a single class or join the full series to experience the diversity of Caribbean music.
No musical experience is required – just curiosity and a willingness to learn.

Each class includes:

An introduction to the featured genre and its cultural significance
Beginner friendly steelpan technique and rhythm exercises
Guided instruction on a featured song
A collaborative group performance to celebrate what you have learned
Steelpan and sticks

Classes will be held on Wednesdays at 6:30pm.

Class Schedule

Class One: Wednesday August 5th

Theme: Soca Celebration- Introduction to Soca rhythms. You will learn:

  • Basic stick control and timing
  • Learn a popular Soca tune
  • Explore the role of steelpan in Carnival culture

Class Two: Wednesday August 12th

Theme: Reggae Vibes- A Trip to Jamaica. You will learn:

  • Off-beat rhythm exercises
  • Dynamics and phrasing
  • A classic Reggae song

Class Three: Wednesday August 19th

Theme: Salsa on Steelpan – A Trip to Cuba. You will learn:

  • Clave patterns and rhythmic coordination
  • Ensemble listening skills
  • Learn a Salsa standard adapted for steelpan
  • Afro-Caribbean musical roots

Class Four: Wednesday August 26th

Theme: Zouk & Island Melodies- A Trip to Martinique + Guadeloupe. You will learn:

  • Smooth melodic playing techniques
  • Musical expression and dynamics
  • A Zouk favourite

Book your spot today

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