STEEL DRUM Meaning and
Definition
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The term "steel drum" refers to a musical instrument that belongs to the percussion family. It is typically made of a metal barrel or drum, derived from oil drums, which has been crafted into a convex shape with various sizes to produce different pitches. The steel drum is also commonly known as a steelpan. Originating from Trinidad and Tobago, it gained popularity as the national instrument of the islands.
The steel drum produces its distinct sound by striking the surfaces with sticks, often referred to as "pansticks" or "pan mallets," or by using the hands to tap or slap the metal surface. Its unique and vibrant tones are achieved by indenting areas of the metal surface into different sizes and shapes, creating individual "notes" that produce a range of musical pitches.
The instrument has found its place not only in Caribbean music genres like calypso and reggae but has also been incorporated into various musical styles globally. Its melodic and percussive qualities have made it a popular instrument in ensembles and bands, adding a lively and tropical element to musical compositions.
Modern steel drums are often chromatically tuned, allowing for a wider range of playing possibilities. The instrument is typically played in groups, known as steelbands or steel orchestras, where different players are responsible for different sections of the instrument, collectively creating harmonious pieces.
Overall, the steel drum is a unique and versatile musical instrument used in many cultural and contemporary settings, showcasing the rich sound and rhythmic diversity associated with the Caribbean.
Common Misspellings for STEEL DRUM
- ateel drum
- zteel drum
- xteel drum
- dteel drum
- eteel drum
- wteel drum
- sreel drum
- sfeel drum
- sgeel drum
- syeel drum
- s6eel drum
- s5eel drum
- stwel drum
- stsel drum
- stdel drum
- strel drum
- st4el drum
- st3el drum
- stewl drum
Etymology of STEEL DRUM
The word "steel drum" has origins in the Caribbean island of Trinidad and Tobago. The instrument was initially called the "steel pan" and later became popularly known as the "steel drum". The term "steel pan" emerged due to the use of discarded oil barrels, typically made of steel, which were repurposed and transformed into musical instruments. The pans were crafted by pounding and shaping the bottom of the barrel into various concave sections or "notes". As the instrument gained international recognition and popularity, it eventually became known as the "steel drum" in some regions, although "steel pan" is still widely used.
Similar spelling word for STEEL DRUM
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