Forging New Rhythms

A vibrant new addition to Camden’s music scene, we’re proud to partner with Camden Music on the Steel Pan Youth Project. Launched in spring 2025, the initiative connects young people to a rich part of the borough’s cultural legacy. The UK’s first Carnival featuring steel pan was held at Camden Town Hall in 1959, and a decade later, in 1969 Islington Green school became the first to teach it, trailblazing the way for national expansion.

The new youth project creates an accessible route into music for people of all abilities. Because steel pan is traditionally taught by rote, students learn melodies quickly – boosting their confidence and sparking enthusiasm. Similarly, the pan ensemble naturally helps their understanding of music composition, laying the foundations for progression to sheet music, which opens up more possibilities of composing and playing myriad instruments.

From supporting emotional wellbeing and cognitive development, to building confidence and teamworking skills through regular rehearsals and performances, there’s so much to be gained through this vibrant new weekly practice, and we’re proud to nurture young musicians as they begin to experience the transformative power of music and community.

Meeting weekly in Camden throughout the academic term, the Training Steel Band is open to students in school years 4 – 6, while the Camden Youth Steel Band welcomes students in school years 7 – 13.

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