Introduction To Physical Science

Unit 6: Waves, Sound, and Light

Steel drums

Introduction:

Most people immediately think of tropical islands when they hear the music of a steel drum.

Steel drums produce a unique sound that is central to Caribbean music and are not simply rhythm instruments.

Task:

Students will read about the history of steel drums and learn when they were invented. They should find out how they are made and create their own steel drum models using metal cans.

Process:

Have students start with the web sites listed to do their research on steel drums. Instruct them to obtain a coffee can or similar metal can that can be safely cleaned at home. After they have cleaned their cans, they'll use a hammer to pound the bottom of the can. Ask them to try to create at least two different sized depressions. Challenge students to see if they can make them sound different. They can use different implements to tap the drum and create their own Calypso music.

Time:

1 class period for research, extra time outside class for creating the drum

Alternative:

Invite a steel drum band to perform for your class or school. Allow time for students to ask the musicians questions and see the drums up close.

Resources:

History of Steel Drums

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steelpan

http://www.isu.edu/stdorg/special/csdb/history.html

http://www.lafi.org/magazine/articles/steel.html

How Steel Drums are Made

http://www.toucans.net/Toc/makePan.html

http://cnx.org/content/m12397/latest/