Steelband Magazine

High Tenor

The high tenor (also known as a soprano pan) is the highest pitched of the steel drums (steel pans) with a pitch range of D4 to F#6, that is, up to two octaves and a major third from D above middle C (C4). Its predecessor actually contained fewer notes which were within the tenor range. However, the name “Tenor” was kept despite the higher range of its descendant, the soprano pan. The notes of this pan is arranged in the cycle of 4ths, going clockwise.

The high tenor pan is a lead instrument and normally carries the melody. However, these steel drums can easily play a harmonic role depending on the desire of the music arranger.The high tenor is commonly used by pan soloists.

Low Tenor

The Low Tenor, which has a pitch range from C4 to E6 has notes that are arranged in the same order as the high tenor. The function of this steel pan is the same as that of the high tenor and it is also used by pan soloists.

Steelband Magazine

Double Tenor

The Double Tenor, which was invented by Bertie Marshall, uses 2 drums and has a pitch range from F3 to B5 or up to two octaves and an augmented 4th from F below middle C. These steel pans have a distinctively pleasant sound, which makes them very appealing to pan soloists. The double tenor can be used to carry the melody, a harmonic voice, for counter melodies or for chords.In the latest standardised version of the double tenor steel drums,the Eb note is on the left hand pan and the F# is on the right hand pan. In an earlier version of this pan, the Eb is on the right hand pan and there was no F#3. So you went from F3 to F#4 to G3 and up, which broke the continuity of the range. There is even a double tenor which has the lowest F# (F#3) on the left and the other F#’s on the right, with the Eb also on the right. So, if you decide to play this pan you must be mindful of its variations. The arrangement of the notes on the double tenor is not symmetrical, which makes it one of the more difficult instruments to master.

The Double Second Pan

This steel pan was invented by Sonny Roach and uses two drums, each of which carries the notes of a whole-tone scale, making it a very symmetrical steel pan. Its notes range from F# below middle C (F#3) up to C#6, which is two octaves above middle C. Because of the symmetry of this pan, the successive notes of the Chromatic Scale alternate between the left and right hand pans. For example, F# is on the left, G is on the right, G# is on the left, and so on…

Steelband Magazine

The Cello Pan

The Cello Pan uses 3 pans, each of which contains the four notes of a diminished seventh chord. One pan therefore contains the notes C, Eb, Gb and A; another pan contains C#, E, G and Bb; the third pan contains B, D, F and Ab. The range of this pan goes from C3, one octave below middle C to B4 above middle C.

The longer skirt and the minor-third relationship between the neighbouring notes of each pan gives the cello pans a deep mysterious tonal quality. These steel drums perfect for counter melodies and low harmony. The symmetry of these steel drums allows the chromatic scale to be played in a clockwise pattern between the three pans. Note that the placement of the pans and even the arrangement of the notes within the pans can vary according to the style of the cello pan

Steel band Magazine Terms and conditions

1. Steelasophical will require the balance of any engagement fee payable to be made in accordance with details scheduled in the contract unless otherwise agreed.

2. If the CLIENT cancels the booking or the event does not take place for any reason, the fees are payable in full minus any allocation made for traveling expenses. Cancellation notification must be in writing and receipt of such notification will be confirmed in writing. Steelasophical will attend the venue and travel costs (hence full agreed fee) will be payable

3. The Steelasophical will conduct themselves in a manner befitting the engagement and will respond to the CLIENTS requests relating to dress code, volume levels, equipment location or any other reasonable request.

4. Steelasophical will require access to a properly earthed mains electricity supply, sufficient to allow safe usage of the required equipment for the performance. If the supply is inadequate then the amount of equipment may be reduced. If Steelasophical considers that the electricity supply or any other aspect of the event is unsafe then they reserve the right to refuse to start or continue the performance after consultation with the CLIENT. The provisions of clause 2 may also apply.

1. Steelasophical will use their best endeavors to attend the function. Should they be prevented from attending for any reason, including accident or sudden illness, then the CLIENT will receive an alternative act. Steelasophical will not incur any liability for late or non-appearance.

6. Licenses for the performance of recorded music are only required at public events. In most cases private parties, such as wedding receptions, birthdays etc which are invitation only and attract no entrance fee do not require a license. It is the CLIENTS responsibility to obtain such licenses if required. Should Steelasophical be prevented from performing due to the absence of any appropriate license or similar permission or should the performance be cancelled for any other reason then the provisions of clause 2 will apply.

7. Steelasophical will require adequate setting up time prior to the performance and a sufficient period afterwards to dismantle and remove their equipment from the venue. The amount of time required is dependent on the package selected

8. The CLIENT is responsible for providing adequate supervision of all guests, staff and customers at the venue and will be liable for any loss or damage to equipment caused by guests, staff or customers.

9. The CLIENT warrants that they are entitled to use the venue for the purposes of the event and performance and that the event does not breach any law, bye-law or conditions imposed on the property.

10. Any extension of playing time is purely at the discretion of Steelasophical and may be subject to other constraints, however they will do their best to accommodate any such request. Fees (per minute) for extended times are charged at the rate indicated in the contract schedule

1. The CLIENT engaging and Steelasophical accepting the engagement confirms acceptance of all these terms and conditions by signing the agreement.
2. Client to ensure lift, ramp and clear access between vehicle and performance area
3. Unless other wise stated and agreed, the performance is to take place in one location only. Time taken to relocate once setup has started will be deducted from the remaining performance time
4. Where free adjacent parking is not provided, the client will pay the equivalent of the parking fees in total + and additional £15 admin fee, to be invoiced within 5 working days following the event

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