How to Play Ranges on Steel Drums

One of the greatest challenges to a steel drum player is finding an appropriate range while playing in a traditional or non-traditional setting. Fitting into a pop or jazz group is challenging because you are limited in what you can do as a steel drummer. The same is true for traditional bands, who may pick material that is past their range. Understanding the limitations and strengths of the steel drum's sound will help you make these decisions in the future.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Steel drums
• Sticks for steel drums

1. Your drum can only play certain octaves. In order to fit the music you are playing you may have to start on a different note than what the music calls for because it is simply impossible for the drum to reach the range required. Luckily, this can produce surprising results.

2. Communicate your instrument's limitations to the rest of the group. Finding common ground is one of the challenges and rewards of playing in an ensemble. Work together to locate a range you can all fit in.

3. Experiment with low notes. Most players will tell you that the low notes on a steel drum are so subtle that they tend to get lost. Keep this in mind while playing with others.

4. Play the high notes. These notes tend to not have much weight behind them and can sound sour if played too much.

5. Discover the sweet range of the steel drum. Between the low notes and the high notes is a lush range of notes that adds life and texture to any music you are playing. By concentrating on these notes, you will see your range limitations as a benefit, not as a drawback.

Tips & Warnings

• Always use proper drum sticks and techniques on a steel drum to avoid damaging your instrument.