A mobile steel band for hire that roams with drums
It’s important to note that the ‘pan roun’ neck’ method of playing the steel pan is the oldest. As such it is the most authentic method and loved by all. To clarify, it involves suspending a pan on a strap from the neck of each player. Because the origins of pan-playing lie in playing music in accompany Trinidad’s carnival, it was only natural that players developed a mobile method of pan playing that wasn’t restricted by a static pan stand. As a result pan roun’ neck was born.
Steel drum players could now follow the carnival, as a consequence. Added to that the players were able to interact with the crowd whilst playing and encourage audience participation.
Furthermore, ‘pan roun’ neck’ was perfect for busking. As a result, a few musicians in the ‘60s and ‘70s would busk in the South of France during August. Fortunately, it also allowed them to holiday with their families at the same time.
However, the pans that professionals play today are generally larger and heavier than before. This, to a large degree, explains why many modern pan players prefer to play on stands.