Aug 05, 2026  
2026-2027 IHCC Catalog 
  
2026-2027 IHCC Catalog

MUSC 1121 - IHCC Steel Drum Ensemble



2 Credits
Introduces group Trinidadian Steel Drum playing and offers students the opportunity to perform in the IHCC Steel Drum Ensemble. Students taking this course (IHCC Steel Drum Ensemble) are expected to attend and participate in class, rehearsals, and perform at the final concert held at semester’s end. This experiential class is a learning and performing ensemble and taught primarily through oral tradition though it will often rely on written aid where applicable. Students are encouraged to use their memory in retaining the music and cultural information that accompanies the music being played. By learning traditional methods, students will also gain personal insights on the cultures and ethnic groups covered. No musical experience is necessary This course performs/features new musical repertoire/content every semester and may be repeated as often as desired.

Major Content Areas
70% Steel Drumming: (5%)

Note layout study; (10%)

Chart reading and performance technique; (5%)

Time keeping technique; (50%)

Ensemble playing

15% Scales and Music Theory

15% Trinidad Culture: (5%) history; (5%) Carnival Study; (5%) Calypso Singing

Learning Outcomes
Demonstrate proficiency in Trinidadian Steel Drum techniques.

Demonstrate ability to retain information via oral transmission

Synthesize patterns and apply critical thinking skills in order to improvise and construct Trinidadian Calypso musical gestures in the proper style

Demonstrate an understanding, perspective, and general overview of several Trinidadian and Caribbean socio-musical cultural issues

Describe the role culture and globalization plays in the creation of music.

Minnesota Transfer Curriculum (MNTC) Goals
08 - Global Perspective

06 - Humanities/Fine Arts