US Academy of Steelpan
Cirriculum

Program Philosophy

Steelpan music training help students develop self-esteem, self-discipline, self motivation and cooperation skills necessary for success in life. Arts, especially music is a powerful vehicle for motivation because the performing arts allows students to express themselves in different ways, involvement in dance and music course is often responsible for keeping students in School.

The Academy’s rigorous academic discipline will require active learning through creation, practice , rehearsal and performance of various music works. Studying Steelpan music involves critical and creative thinking and problem-solving skills with intellectual and emotional components. They build a bridge between verbal and non-verbal, between the strictly logical and the emotional- the better to gain an understanding of the whole. When students create music, they grow in their ability to comprehend the world and learn to communicate with others.

Students will get the opportunity to study the history, experiences and contributions of culture throughout the world. In addition, students learn about and prepare for career opportunities Steelpan performance. Students will also learn to use technology in exploring, creating and presenting the music they create.

In the Academy Students will:

a) Develop a picture of who they are – a whole person , a valuable person

b) Develop a sense of belonging , of connecting with a group.

c) Develop reliability, responsibility, patience and the willingness to try something new.

d) Take pleasure in rehearsal and performance , and pride in their successes

e) Have high expectations for themselves and be active participants in their lives- not spectators.

f) Learn to develop their skills through sustained effort.

g) Develop an understanding of human nature and the ability to empathize

h) Become tolerant and open to other’s ideas and ways of being.

i) Develop a love for all Steeelpan music and all arts

Goals

a) Artistic Expression

Students develop necessary technique and appropriate vocabulary to communicate artistically.

b) Creative Expression

Students use experience and imagination in composition, improvisation an interpretation of music.

c) Historical and Cultural Context

Students develop a knowledge and appreciation of the richness and complexity of Steelpan and music history and the

diversity of world cultures through the music.

d) Aesthetic Valuing

Students analyze, interpret, and make critical judgments about music in accord with intuitive and learned aesthetic principles.