Northern Lights Steel Orchestra holds series of steel pan lessons, beginning this weekend.

The talented members of the  orchestra have left audiences spellbound by the unique sounds that emanate from the  steel pans, sounds that go way beyond the traditional calypso and include, among others, pop, classical, gospel and jazz.

The NLSO is once again sharing this great art with the community, by offering steel pan music classes over the course of six weekends (12 sessions). Participants will receive individual instruction and attention in an orchestra setting.  

Playing is not done by music, it’s done by note (letters), which is one reason why the learning curve is so short. It also enables those with no musical background to learn to play.

Unlike the traditional pan, which was hammered from 55-gallon drums left to rust on the island of Trinidad by the navy after WWII, the steel drums used by the Northern Lights are the Rolls Royce of instruments, fashioned and tuned by some of the best craftsmen in the world.

As well, the instruments are only handled when wearing white gloves.

The NLSO was formed almost a decade ago by Mervyn Jordan, president of Gilead Publishing and pastor of the Mt. Gilead Bible Seminary that is based on a 200-acre property just off Hwy. 518 West near Sprucedale.

 The orchestra numbers anywhere from 30 to more than 70 members at any given time and consists of a multi-cultural group of men, women and children.

Orchestra numbers average about 40 to 50 members, more in the summer, and fluctuate as people come and leave the property.

Playing the pan is a unique experience that may well bring some tropical pleasure into winter without the long trip to the Caribbean. Registrations are currently being taken at Robinson’s Independent Grocer and lessons, 12 in all, run from Jan. 25 through to  March 2.

Classes are open to anyone over the age of 10 years and cost $60 per person.  

For more information call Robinson’s at 789-8075 or e-mail at info@nlso.ca.