Peninsula Pan History

During the past 10 years steel drum music (pan) has been an integral part of the musical tradition of the Blue Hill peninsula. Originating in Trinidad by descendents of slaves over 50 years ago, pan is now played and performed by musicians world wide. This music offers musicians and audiences alike the opportunity to participate in the growth of a musical style and instrument evolved from repression to ingenuity. Because steel drums are relatively easy to learn to play, they have attracted all ages and levels of musical ability. Several high schools in Maine, including the high school serving most of the Blue Hill peninsula, teach steel drum instrumental music as part of the regular curriculum as it exemplifies an open approach to music education.

The purpose of creating Peninsula Pan is to provide a legal entity which will provide a permanent organizational structure to manage the business affairs of Flash in the Pans. The mission of Peninsula Pan is to continue a tradition of performing and sponsoring steel drum (pan) music throughout the Blue Hill peninsula and beyond and, in the process, to strengthen a tradition of community-based live music. All contributions, grants and income in excess of expenses will be dispensed in support of community needs, including musical scholarships and student aid.

The popularity and success of our community steel band has been such that it is appropriate at this time to combine the band's activities under a separate non-profit entity, one which can accept contributions and provide for the long term maintenance and support for this form of music.