Today I had the pleasure of visiting the LAMP Community Health Centre (Lakeshore site), a vibrant and welcoming space that provides a wide range of health and community services for people of all ages. I was invited to lead a talk and hands-on workshop for their seniors’ program, focusing on the history and evolution of the steelpan.
During the session, we explored the steelpan’s roots in Trinidad and Tobago, its journey from resistance and resilience to global recognition, and its role as both a cultural symbol and a powerful musical instrument. Participants were curious, engaged, and eager to learn — asking thoughtful questions and sharing their own musical memories along the way.
The workshop portion allowed participants to experience the steelpan firsthand. Many had never played the instrument before, and it was wonderful to see how quickly they connected with it. Through simple rhythms and group playing, the room filled with laughter, concentration, and a strong sense of shared accomplishment.
Music learning offers many meaningful benefits for seniors, and this workshop highlighted several of them in action. Engaging with music can help support memory, attention, and cognitive flexibility, while learning new skills stimulates the brain and encourages lifelong learning. Playing music together also promotes social connection, reducing isolation and fostering a sense of belonging. On a physical level, even gentle musical activities can support coordination, fine motor skills, and overall well-being. Perhaps most importantly, music offers joy — a creative outlet that uplifts mood and builds confidence at any age.
I’m grateful to the LAMP Community Health Centre for the invitation and for the important work they do in creating inclusive, enriching programs for seniors. It was truly inspiring to share the sound and story of the steelpan with such an enthusiastic group, and a reminder that music has the power to connect us across generations.
The audience also had a chance to see and try an original spider web steelpan made by Anthony Williams, a standard lead steelpan, an e-pan (electronic steelpan) invented by Salmon Cupid, and mini-steelpans.
