The Ministry of Tourism, Creative Economy and Culture is preparing to launch its innovative Community Steelpan Programme (COMS-PAN) across Grenada’s tri-island territory, bringing the distinctive sounds of steelpan music to local communities starting next week. This groundbreaking cultural initiative, formally inaugurated on November 7, 2025, will provide comprehensive training in steelpan fundamentals to at least twenty participants from each parish in its inaugural cohort.
The program commences with orientation sessions scheduled for St. David on January 12, 2026, at the Corinth Community Centre (5:00 PM), followed by Carriacou on January 16 at the La Resource Community Centre in Mt. Royal (2:00 PM). Regular training sessions will follow, with St. David hosting instruction every Monday and Thursday from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the community center’s pan house, while Carriacou sessions will occur Tuesdays and Thursdays during the same hours at the La Resource facility.
According to Program Manager Cordel Byam, COMS-PAN specifically targets youth and community members not currently affiliated with established steel bands. The structured curriculum aims to enhance musical literacy, develop performance skills, and build confidence for both solo and ensemble presentations. “Our objective encompasses teaching steelpan fundamentals, introducing basic music theory, and cultivating performance confidence across individual and group settings,” Byam elaborated.
Successful participants who complete both theoretical and practical components will receive certification and may be selected for community band placements. Chief Cultural Officer Kelvin Jacob emphasized the program’s historical significance, noting it represents Grenada’s first initiative of its kind. Jacob credited Minister for Tourism, Creative Economy and Culture Senator Adrian Thomas with conceptualizing the program, which reflects the ministry’s dedication to innovation, cultural development, and national pride.
Prospective participants can obtain additional information by contacting the Ministry at 440-0366 or visiting the Division of Culture at Unit 12, Steele’s Commercial Complex in Grand Anse, St. George.