The Caribbean Steel Drum band performed on the Peace Quad on Thursday, delivering an evening filled with musical talent and a welcoming atmosphere that drew a lively crowd. The performance took place outside under the breezy autumn trees of the quad, where students gathered from across campus to enjoy the upbeat sound of steel drums.
Joel Smales, an adjunct lecturer in percussion and the band’s instructor, was happy to share the performance with students and alumni who happened to walk by. “When anybody ever hears the steel drum, they’re immediately transported to the Caribbean,” Smales said. “Whether they’ve been there or not, it just makes them think of blue water, tropical trees, warm beaches, sunny days. Everybody we talked to said it just felt like I was someplace else, and so that’s always just a happy, fun thing.”
Smales performed alongside eight student musicians, showcasing impressive musical talent. As they played, the sound of the steel drums echoed across campus, bringing a joyful vibrance that carried throughout the quad. A small crowd formed around the band, watching, listening, and appreciating the down-to-earth nature of the songs.
The band played hits such as “Stand by Me” by Ben E. King and “Monday Night” with a flair that excited the audience. Maia Tucker, a senior majoring in integrative neuroscience who helped organize the event, admired both the uniqueness and inclusivity of the band. “Just the fact that we’re playing steel drums is pretty unique,” Tucker said. “I don’t think many schools offer that as an ensemble that people can be a part of, and I actually think Binghamton has a pretty impressive list of ensembles for people to participate in if they want to.”
Tucker added that the band is relaxed and beginner-friendly. It meets only once a week and is open to new members eager to learn something new.
The performance created a peaceful environment that brought everyone together with positive energy. During midterms and seasonal changes, stress levels rise, and music can be a powerful way to provide a welcome distraction. This performance offered students a brief but joyful escape.
Josiah Moltz, a junior majoring in mathematics, enjoys playing in the band and sharing its uplifting energy with others. “I think it’s been said before, but Binghamton is a cold, rainy place,” Moltz said. “And I think it’s fun to hear happy music outside. The weather might be terrible, but I’m having fun. You know, there’s some joy out there.”
The Caribbean has a rich history of culture and music—whether in festivals or the origins of certain instruments like steelpan drums, maracas, and guiros. The band aims to preserve this Caribbean legacy and heritage in its music and performances. By celebrating the region’s rich musical traditions, the Caribbean Steel Drum Band helps keep its cultural legacy alive on campus.
Smales, who has long been passionate about world music, considers the band both a cultural bridge and a learning opportunity. “I love just any kind of ethnomusicology, multicultural music,” Smales said. “I think we should study as much as we can of other cultures, other countries, music and heritages, food, clothing, and dance, anything like that. If we can integrate it into our curriculum, into our lives, I think we’re all the better for it.”
As the final notes faded into the crisp October air, the spirit of the Caribbean seemed to linger, reminding students that music and heritage have the power to bring sunshine to even the cloudiest day on campus.
The band has performed at events like Caribbean Night in the dining halls and regularly plays outdoor concerts, giving students and faculty the opportunity to experience Caribbean music right here in Binghamton.
The next big concert for the Caribbean Steel Drum Band will be on December 2 at Chamber Hall. They will be performing alongside the University Percussion Ensemble, offering another chance for the campus community to experience their vibrant, island-inspired sound.
https://www.bupipedream.com/ac/caribbean-steel-drum-performance-provides-a-cultural-escape-on-the-peace-quad/172136/